Flexiwork booklet of advice, tips now out

Companies now have advice on how to put in place flexible work arrangements, while employees have tips on what to consider when requesting such arrangements.

The booklet comes with a step-by-step approach which employers can consider in implementing flexible work arrangements. Employees are also advised to talk to their colleagues who have used or are using flexible work arrangements to learn from their experience.

"We all make choices, and our choices reflect what is important to us," said Manpower Minister Tan Chuan-Jin yesterday at the launch of the advisory.

"Senior management need to recognise that your choices as employers have a ripple effect that goes beyond your organisation and its bottom line. It will have an effect on your employees' families, and even on society at large," he said.

The booklet is issued by the Tripartite Committee on Work-Life Strategy, which has members from government agencies and employers associations.

The committee also recognised 47 organisations and individuals for their achievements in championing work-life balance. One of them was Mr Muhamad Hamim Abdul Rahim, a senior teacher at Boon Lay Secondary.

He started a system three years ago in which teachers were given points for taking part in staff welfare activities and could win prizes such as supermarket vouchers.

Work-life balance can benefit staff, leaving them more energetic and alert, he said. "It will ensure that we go on to give quality work and enjoy the fruits of our work with our loved ones."

Mr Koh Juan Kiat, executive director of the Singapore National Employers Federation, said: "Flexible work arrangements... can help employers to be more flexible in manpower deployment, as well as to retain some workers."

The advisory can be found at www.mom.gov.sg/fwa-advisory.

goyshiyi@sph.com.sg

This article was first published on Nov 8, 2014.
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