Apple have recently released a video called “Escape from the Office” which is an advert designed to promote their own products (i-pads, mac books) by showing how easy it would be to start up your own business from home, with no need to have a traditional office.
But, do they practice what they preach ? Apparently not, only a few weeks before releasing this video Apple Inc set down a deadline by which all staff would need to return to the office.
Admittedly, it is a phased return which looks like it will be permissible to continue to work from home for some days of the month but it definitely signals an end of home working. Not all staff are supportive and don’t see why they can’t remain working from home with an attendance at the office the exception rather than the norm.
Many businesses are facing the same dilemma. So, what can you do when your staff are resisting a return to the office full time ? Unless you are prepared to lose some staff and insist on a return to the office for everyone for all of their working time, there is an alternative – it is a Hybrid Working Arrangement.
Under this arrangement your staff will be able to work from home for some days of the week and work in the office for others. You can dictate the amount of days and which days. You can also make it available for all or only those who can do their job remotely. You can have a trial period and you can make sure you have the ability to withdraw the right to work from home (if, for example, performance deteriorates) or to change the terms. We can provide you with a bespoke Hybrid Working Policy as well as an accompanying health and safety check, tailored to your needs.
If you need any advice on hybrid working arrangements please contact us on 01483 303636 or email info@jesolicitors.com to see how we can help you.
