Flexible working has been a hot topic of conversation for some time now. And certainly not just within the tech industry. More and more people are looking for jobs that offer them flexibility; whether this is in the form of part-time hours, work from home opportunities, or simply being a little more understanding with flexitime.
One of the main benefits of working in tech is that it’s in the cloud, this means that technically, any tech professional can work from anywhere at any time. The systems can be accessed virtually everywhere on any sort of device with an internet connection, the versatility is endless.
So, why then, are some businesses still stuck in this 9-5 culture despite having the technology to provide a much more flexible approach to their employees?
We explore some of the benefits of having a more flexible approach to flexibility in the tech industry.
Attracting talent
It’s has become common knowledge, that there is a skills shortage and an ever-increasing demand for tech professionals. It’s an increasingly competitive market, and tech professionals know they have control when it comes to their careers in the industry.
Businesses need to do as much as they can to stand out and attract these in-demand candidates. They need to offer them something that their competition potentially isn’t. With the growing significance of flexible working, you might just be able to fill those key tech roles, if you can offer an environment that encourages flexibility.
Making tech a career option
In order to maintain the growth of the tech industry and those within it, it’s important to make choosing tech a practical and sustainable career option. Flexibility is definitely a step towards doing this.
As mentioned above, there are many different meanings of a flexible working environment. It depends on personal circumstances. By adapting your business to the needs of the tech workforce, you not only open yourself up to access wider pools of talent, but you’ll also help to grow the talent that is out there.
People who need flexibility in their work will be more likely to take the tech career path. In turn, this will increase the number of professionals in the industry. Helping to ease the skills shortage we are currently experiencing.
Staff retention
This comes from the perspective of both new and existing employees. Tech professionals who might otherwise have left their current role, due to competitors offering them greater flexibility, are more likely to stick around. Many employers find that a better work-life balance has a positive impact on staff retention, employee relations, motivation, and commitment.
It also means you are less likely to lose the in-demand tech professionals who understand your business so well. This is hugely beneficial based on the vast skills shortage and demands the industry is experiencing.
Concerns
There can, quite rightly, some concerns about adopting a flexible working approach by employers. The key issue being that employees will abuse it. However, it’s often found that the benefits far outweigh the concerns, specifically when it comes to the tech industry.
If you’re struggling to attract and engage the top tech talent it needs, consider creating a more flexible environment. It doesn’t need to be an all-or-nothing approach, you can implement flexible changes over time. But as ever in this industry, it’s important to listen to the market and take the initiative that will benefit everyone.
If you would like to discuss the wide pools of talent we can offer your business or are a tech professional looking for flexible opportunities. Chat with your personal career advisor Jobby today. Jobby will put you in touch with one of our specialist recruiters for a confidential chat about your opportunities.
