Despite recent skepticism and high profile flexible work bans, it is clear that work flexibility is here to stay. According to a recent study by the Telework Research Network, nearly 30 million Americans work from home at least one day per week, with the numbers expecting to increase by more than 60 percent in the coming five years. Additional research suggests that 30 to 45 percent of professionals today are working from home as long-term freelancers, contractors, or full-time virtual employees. However, the search for telecommuting work remains to be a challenge due in part to the fact that very few employers are actively promoting their flex work policies. If you aren’t promoting it, are you hiding your flex?
Job seekers continue to be reminded of the flexible work arrangements of others, or the latest company to embrace telecommuting, yet are disappointed by the lack of clear information regarding flexible positions. A company that embraces these positive workplace trends—and advertises its own flexible policies—will place among the growing network of companies at the forefront of this evolving industry.
Why tout work flexibility? Competitive candidates.
Consider the type of professionals applying for this type of work. They are often well-educated and passionate about leading a healthy and balanced work and professional life. Some of the most common professionals seeking flexible work are millennial/gen-Y professionals, military spouses and vets, and retired professionals looking to integrate balance into their careers.
To attract top candidates, companies will need to consider the fact that hiding flexible work benefits can often be a deal-breaker for a number of job seekers. In fact, 39 percent of job seekers have turned down a job, a promotion, or quit due to inadequate flexible work options, according to a survey from FlexJobs.
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Are you hiring for flex? Here’s how to highlight it!
After understanding the importance of flex work, and the kind of candidates who are attracted to it, showcase your company’s flexible work policies in your job descriptions. Whether it is a compressed workweek that allows for flexible scheduling arrangements, or full-time work-at-home positions that offer flexibility, be sure to select keywords in your job descriptions that closely reflect your situation. Choosing the appropriate language (“telecommute” versus “remote work,” for example) will increase your chances of attracting the kind of job seekers that you want.
Clearly stating your support for flexible work in the job title itself is another way to easily attract the attention of professionals on the hunt for work-life balance. Lastly, featuring your flex work policies in the career section of your company website, as well as featuring employee testimonials, will connect you to the growing number of professionals seeking this kind of work.
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How do you tout work flexibility policies to attract top candidates? Share with us below!
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