Want Flexibility on the Job? Virtual PBX Can Help

Flexibility is often a concept we talk about when it comes to technology, office furniture and even contracts. Flexible schedules may come up in conversations with human resources, but bending to the ebb and flow of the demands of a dynamic workforce may be a challenge companies don’t want to try and overcome. But are they missing key advantages in doing so?

A recent blog from virtual PBX provider Nextiva shows that an investment in flexibility for employees can make them more loyal. Considering the cost of recruiting, training and supporting new employees, a simple change to human resource management could save significant costs and create a healthy bottom line.

The blog looks at a survey recently completed FlexJobs, a site that collects telecommuting and other flexible work options for job seekers. Survey participants shared that they would be more loyal if their employer offered flexible work options. This was true for 83 percent of the 1,300 respondents.

Another 46 percent revealed that they had quit a job or given up a position due to the lack of flexibility to create a work-life balance in their schedules. Fifty-three percent shared that they know someone who fits that description. According to FlexJobs CEO Sara Sutton Fell, these numbers are staggering in an economy with high unemployment, demonstrating the importance people place on flexibility.

These individuals are also willing to take a cut in pay to demonstrate their commitment to flexibility. One in five would take a 10 percent pay cut, while another seven percent were willing to take a 20 percent cut. Others would give up vacation time and still others would give up health benefits. Still others are willing to give up retirement contributions, all of which demonstrate savings for employers.

While work-life balance was a priority for 75 percent of participants, 45 percent reported time savings as an important benefit. Another 43 percent wanted to alleviate the stress related to the commute and still another 40 percent were looking to save money. Each participant may have a specific reason for seeking flexibility, yet most are willing to compromise to achieve this goal.

When employees want to set up shop at home and still contribute to the team, the virtual PBX is a powerful means to achieve this end. It allows for full functionality regardless of location. Plus, a third party vendor is involved to ensure the solution is up and working at all times. It creates the best of both worlds, giving the impression the employee is in the office when he or she may be on the other side of the state.

One note about the referenced survey, however. While the findings here do suggest there is a strong push towards flexible work schedules, it was conducted by a company that serves this particular audience. Are the figures a good representation of the working force at large or just those looking for flexibility in their jobs? The trend certainly is real, but is it as prolific as these findings suggest?