Flexible benefits ''can make big difference to retention''

Flexible benefits such as the opportunity to change working hours could make a "big difference" with staff retention.

This is the view of Simply Business columnist Josh Hall, who said flexible benefits are set to become a "hot topic" due to Westminster plans to shake-up hours of engagement.

He explained that even the relatively small change of allowing employees to start and finish 30 minutes later could help to keep them happy.

"In circumstances where employees do not necessarily have to be in during set hours, consider allowing them to choose, within reason, when they come into and leave the office," he remarked.

Recognising positive results is also a key tactic in retaining talented staff - even saying "thank you" can display noticeable gratitude for a worker''s efforts.

Mr Hall also said that employers must adopt an open door management policy and foster an environment where everyone feels involved in the decision-making process.

However, last month chairman of the Recruitment Society Steve Huxham cautioned that not all flexible benefits suit everyone, giving the example that some people could feel sidelined by telecommuting. Back