What flexible working looks like in 2026
If you can believe it, the Covid-19 pandemic was just over 5 years ago, but the marks of its impact are still showing in the workplace. When the majority of the country went remote, it has been a battle for companies to get people back into the office, and currently over a quarter of working adults in Britain are hybrid working. For some, the flexible work/life balance has meant that a full return to the office is not an attractive offer, and for the wider company, hybrid working for some of their employees does have its merits. A study suggests 80% UK employees believe the ability to work flexibly boosts their productivity, whilst 74% believe their company will grow quicker with the help of flexible working. So what makes flexible working succeed in 2026, and how can you apply this to your business?
Value your employees
Create an EVP, or Employee Value Proposition that your employees truly see the advantage of using. As part of the company’s branding, it is key to make your EVP as unique as your work force. Develop your proposition alongside your company’s mission and core ethos, so that prospective candidates and current employees can see a clear path ahead. Alongside bonuses and proactive incentives, Embedding Hybrid working into your company culture can play an important role in staff retention and creating a positive working environment.
Mindfulness & Motivation
As part of your proposition, include Health and Wellbeing benefits for your employees, both remote and in-house. Offering an EAP provides access to mental health support and advice, when your employees need it most. Working alone can feel very isolating, so ensuring your team knows they can access the system for expert and confidential advice can help reduce the feelings of loneliness or low mood. Check in with your team with catch up zoom calls to make sure they feel listened to and valued even from a far.
Health comes first.
Alongside mental health support, it’s important to factor in your team’s physical health, too. Flexible working options keep the office flowing. Employees can make the decision to work from home if they are feeling unwell. They can manage their health and recovery, whilst ensuring the safety of their colleagues from infection. This can be assessed on a case by case basis, as it is important to ensure your employees are following your work place procedures regarding sickness and leave. Working from home allows employees to handle their work load, whilst also enjoying the comforts of home. Hybrid working can boost productivity, as well as allow employees from under-represented groups, such as employees with chronic illnesses or long term conditions, to be a part of the workforce and thrive in their careers whilst prioritising their welfare.
Work stronger, together.
Now that you have the WFH side covered for your flexible workers, don’t gloss over the office environment for the days they commute in. Make sure the workplace is an environment people feel motivated and ready to work in. Advocate for your remote team and on-site employees to build relationships, so that everyone can feel welcomed and comfortable when they enter the workplace.
Organise team building activities, company away days and social events for your employees to get to know each other, and boost camaraderie. Alongside zoom catch ups, encourage an open door policy for management, or weekly in-person “surgeries” , so that your employees can have a dedicated time to voice their concerns or plans for their hybrid work.
As the world of work continues to adapt, flexible working is a powerful tool for businesses; enhancing staff well-being, productivity, and overall company success.
To boost your employees benefits, contact the team for a free demo, and improve your EVP.
