Timely Careers’ Post

What Could a New Right to Disconnect Look Like Under a Labour Government? Labour is championing the ‘right to switch off’, aiming to create healthier work-life balance policies. Inspired by models from Ireland and Belgium, this initiative seeks to give workers the freedom to unplug and recharge. What Model Might the UK Adopt? Labour’s Plan to Make Work Pay proposes giving “workers and employers the opportunity to have constructive conversations and work together on bespoke workplace policies or contractual terms that benefit both parties.” This approach aligns with the Irish and Belgian models, which focus on employers establishing a written policy rather than an absolute right to disconnect. Will it work? In countries like Ireland and Belgium, the right to disconnect has made little difference in employees' day-to-day lives. Given the lack of sanctions attached directly to this right, it's more likely employees will bring complaints for breaches of working time or health and safety, rather than a failure to respect a right to disconnect. While the details are yet to be seen, it seems unlikely that changes from a new Labour government would cause a seismic shift in the UK’s working culture. How Can Employers Prepare? Businesses may want to consider how they can proactively prepare for any changes: * Time Recording: Employers no longer need to record daily working hours but must maintain adequate records to show compliance. Assess how frequently and to what extent employees are working outside of their core hours. * Culture Audit: Evaluate workplace culture to identify any toxic working habits in particular teams or departments. * Right to Disconnect Policy: Consider introducing a right to disconnect policy. Although not currently required, this document can help set out your values, culture, and expectations. Review existing policies, such as flexible working or time off policies, alongside this. * Encourage Healthy Habits: Small steps can improve an employee’s ability to switch off. * Use email footers to set out working days/hours. * Encourage scheduling emails to be sent within working hours only. * Introduce “buddy” systems to ensure appropriate cover. * Promote better use of calendars and communication of working patterns. For many employers, employee wellbeing should always remain high on the corporate agenda. Regardless of any future right to switch off, the above steps will support employees in achieving a better work-life balance. #RightToDisconnect #WorkLifeBalance #EmployeeWellbeing #LabourPolicy #FutureOfWork #HealthyWorkplace

What an employee expects from the organisations where they work - Fair Compensation: Competitive salaries, bonuses, and benefits. Work-Life Balance: Flexible working hours, remote work options, and sufficient time off to maintain a healthy balance between personal and professional life. Job Security: Stability in employment without frequent layoffs or abrupt changes. Professional Development: Opportunities for training, career advancement, and skill development. Recognition and Appreciation: Regular acknowledgment of their efforts and achievements. Positive Work Environment: A supportive, respectful, and inclusive workplace culture. Health and Wellbeing: Programs and initiatives that support physical and mental health. Most of you will relate with this post, let’s start a conversation please share or add on your point of view in chat box. #humanresources #stability #worklofebalance #appreciation #employeecare #mentalhealth #organisations #letstalk

🌟Breaking News for UK Workers!🌟 Brighter days are ahead for employees across the UK! The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) has shed light on newly minted rights surrounding flexible working requests. These rights are a game-changer, set to empower millions with the chance to mold their work schedules to fit their lives better. In a pivotal move, the flexibility in work has shifted from a privilege to an accessible right from day one of employment. This marks a significant leap forward, echoing the evolving needs of today's dynamic workforce. The changes arrive at a crucial time, as we collectively navigate the post-pandemic world, seeking a healthier work-life balance. Transforming work culture positively, these adjustments pivot us towards a future where workers aren't just cogs in a machine, but individuals with diverse needs and aspirations. So, what's your take on this? Will it foster greater job satisfaction and productivity? Let's hear your insights below! #FlexibleWorking #FutureOfWork #CIPD

A groundbreaking global study has revealed that social workers face some of the toughest working conditions of any profession - high workloads, limited autonomy, and poor well-being. Let’s drive change to create healthier, more sustainable work environments. #SocialWork #EmployeeWellbeing #WorkplaceHealth #LeadershipMatters #SocialWorkNews

🌟 Job benefits play a crucial role in attracting and retaining top talent, especially in the UK.🌟 While salary remains important, employees are increasingly prioritizing benefits that enhance their work-life balance and overall well-being. From flexible working hours and remote work options to mental health support and generous parental leave, these perks can make all the difference in creating a positive workplace culture. It's essential for employers to understand their workforce's needs and adapt accordingly to stay competitive in today's job market. What benefits do you value the most? #JobBenefits #WorkLifeBalance #EmployeeWellbeing

👀 What recent data is telling us that employees are looking for in the workplace… Flexibility: Flexible schedules and hybrid work options are a top priority, allowing a better work-life balance and more manageable schedules.  An annual 'What Workers Want' survey by New Possible found that 50% of employees without flexible work options are considering a job change in 2024. Company Culture: A positive company culture is a significant factor in employee satisfaction. Employees want a workplace with a sense of community that recognises achievements and encourages open communication. A supportive culture that aligns with employees' values enhances engagement and retention, creating an environment where individuals feel valued and motivated to contribute their best work. A study by Workbuzz found that 45% of UK employees and business leaders rank a "great" culture as the most important factor when looking for a new job. Career Growth and Development: Employees want continuous learning, training programmes, and clear career progression paths with opportunities for professional development. A survey by Docebo found that over 83% of workers would be more likely to choose to work for an employer that prioritises continuous learning and development opportunities. Competitive Salaries and Benefits: Fair and competitive salaries, along with comprehensive benefits packages, remain a top priority for employees. This can include healthcare/life insurance, and good retirement plans. According to research from Pluxee UK, 37% of UK employees would reconsider a job change if their current employer offered them improved financial benefits and incentives. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): Employees want to work in environments where diversity is celebrated, equity is prioritised, and inclusion is practised. Companies with significant DEI initiatives attract top talent and create a more innovative and collaborative culture. A YouGov survey found that 66% of UK workers said that the acceptance and inclusion of employees from all backgrounds is important to them when looking for jobs. What do you value most in the workplace as an employee? #EmployeeEngagement #WorkLifeBalance #ProfessionalDevelopment #CompanyCulture #EmployeeWellness #DEI 

Is This a Healthy Work Environment? 🤔 It's disheartening to see companies exploiting highly qualified professionals by offering low salaries. While cost-cutting is a reality, undervaluing skilled workers is unethical and unsustainable. A healthy work environment should prioritize: #Fair Compensation: Employees deserve fair pay for their skills and experience. #Respectful Treatment: A positive, supportive work culture is essential. #Ethical Practices: Avoiding exploitation of workers, especially vulnerable populations. #Work-Life Balance: Promoting a healthy balance between work and personal life. #Professional Development: Providing opportunities for growth and advancement. #workplaceethics #jobmarket #faircompensation #worklifebalance #professionaldevelopment

When it comes to attracting talent in construction and manufacturing, flexible hours emerge as the top incentive, appealing to 48% of job seekers. This preference highlights a growing demand for work-life balance in traditionally rigid industries. Surprisingly, health benefits are less of a priority, with only 4% prioritising them. Understanding these preferences can help employers tailor their job offers to better attract and retain top talent. What do you think about these results? #Poll #LinkedInPoll #ConstructionIncentive #WorkIncentive

Interesting analysis from BCG. They explored #employment trends among #officeworkers —defined as employees who can do most of their work from anywhere, provided they have a laptop and internet access. They found that people’s enjoyment at work strongly correlates with their decision to stay in their role. In the most recent iteration, they sought to understand the attitudes of #desklessworkers —those who need to be at a physical location or asset to conduct most of their tasks—toward their work. #workplace #workforce #HR #talentmanagement #employeesatisfaction #employeeengagement https://lnkd.in/gaH66PeN