Flexible working can come in many forms, whether tailored hours, job-sharing or the ability to work remotely. Along with more than 90% of the Polycom workforce, I work from home a couple of days a week. As well as avoiding the arduous commute, flexible working enables me to make the most of the extra time I have – I like to squeeze in some exercise, for instance, which helps me stay (relatively) fit. This refreshes me, and makes me ready for a more productive day.
When you’re working remotely, having access to the right technology is important – for example, high-definition video-conferencing from my laptop, iPad or mobile, which allows me to join meetings face-to-face and share content, even when I’m stuck in a hotel or conference room or working from home.
Flexible working also means more opportunities for recruiting. You can open up to candidates who don’t live near your HQ or those with different working requirements. Parents, for instance, often favour companies that will allow them to work remotely, or offer hours that help them balance family and work life. I have three daughters and working from home really helps me to achieve this.
So arm yourself and your colleagues with the right tech to work from anywhere and you’ll find yourself with one happy, productive team.