This summer’s hugely successful Olympic Games has led to more SMEs adopting a flexible approach to working hours, according to a recent poll.
Citrix, a leading provider of mobile business solutions, surveyed 500 senior figures in London-based SMEs and found 13% of their organisations adopted more flexible working hours during the summer of sport.
This approach was largely welcomed by employees and business alike: 77% of workers reacted positively to the changes, with 48% of businesses reporting a general positive effect on their company as a whole.
This is in stark contrast to the 5% of individuals and 8% of businesses that reported a negative experience.
A more flexible approach to the working day was particularly welcomed by young people: 72% of people aged 18-34 believe flexible working hours will be important in the next five years.
The motto of the London games was to ‘inspire a generation’. This seems to be the case, with greater flexibility of work allowing employees more time to participate in out-of-work activities, inspired by their sporting heroes.
The benefit for businesses? They get an enthusiastic workforce, energized by a healthy work/life balance.