London, Ocotber 01: A survey has suggested that many workers would rather have flexible hours or time off for their birthday than a pay rise or a bonus.
Surveyed workers wanted official ‘gossip time’ and breaks for sporting events
It seems UK employees, recognising the tough year experienced by most businesses are happy to swap cash for a bit of consideration.
Workers called for a return of a proper lunch break, rather than having to eat at their desks, a survey of 1,500 adults by Kellogg’s showed.
Workers who benefit from personalised flexible hours are 20% more likely to have a spring in their step on the way into work than those with less freedom.
With workers feeling under pressure to start earlier, finish later and lunch at their desk, a quarter of employees say just being able to take their full hour for lunch would motivate them.
Helen Whitten, from work-life balance organisation Positiveworks, said: “Britain’s bosses need to take seriously the practical and emotional needs of their staff if they are to gain their commitment to the organisation’s continued productivity and success.
“The research shows that it’s not always about money but about achieving a better work-life balance, with the call for more flexible working hours across British businesses stronger than ever.”
The study shows that personalised flexible working can actively banish work place blues, using initiatives that recognise employees as individuals rather than simply pay-roll numbers.
Women workers wanted official “gossip breaks” for non-smokers, while men were keen for an office dating service and for big sporting events such as the World Cup to be screened in offices.
Kellogg’s flexible working scheme, which includes part-time working, flexible working hours for all, career breaks, summer hours and home working, has led to increased morale and improved staff retention.
The organisation was named in the 50 Best Workplaces for the last two years in the Sunday Times.
—Agencies