Flexible working arrangements are a key factor in managers' decisions to remain in their current roles, according to new research from the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). The CMI surveyed over 1,000 managers, finding that two in five identified flexible working as a main reason they have stayed with their employer.
The research revealed that arrangements such as remote and hybrid working were considered more important than competitive pay, job security, or engaging work. This comes as first secretary of state Louise Haigh announced plans on Wednesday to bolster flexible working rights. The new policy will require employers to hold meetings with staff who request such arrangements and provide compelling reasons for any refusal.
Petra Wilton, CMI's director of policy, stated that managers need the skills to balance flexible working, acknowledging the importance of in-person team interaction for onboarding new recruits and strengthening team dynamics. She added that skilled managers recognise this and ensure employees feel valued regarding reasonable flexible working requests.
Separately, Barclays is reportedly facing staff backlash over its decision to tighten its home working policy. Thousands of employees are said to have supported a call to reverse the bank's requirement for those within a 40-minute commute to work in the office three days a week. Employees have also reportedly requested a one-off payment to cover commuting costs.