CIPR launches flexible working guide and nationwide hot desking deal
The CIPR has published a guide to flexible working and a UK-wide hot desking deal with NearDesk.
Two weeks ago the CIPR announced a maternity package for members. It was driven by member research that identified a £12,000 pay gap between men and women. There are lots of reasons for this, ranging from negotiation skills to maternity leave, and from a lack of transparency on salaries to blatant sexism.
The package includes a break of up to 12 months from subscription fees and from having to log Continuing Professional Development (CPD) credits. It also comprises bespoke guides to managing maternity leave and returning to work produced in association with The Talent Keeper Specialists as well as access to an online community and support.
Working to the new rules
Today we’re taking this a step further by tackling the changes in workflow and the demands of 24/7 news and always-on social forms of media.
We’ve launched a Guide to Flexible Working In Public Relations and a partnership with NearDesk, a fast growing provider of hot desking and serviced office space.
“The CIPR is providing best practice to help employers restructure their organisations to cope with the needs of clients and media, while ensuring employees get a decent work-life balance,” said Sarah Hall, CIPR board member who has spearheaded this programme of activity.
“The CIPR Flexible Working In Public Relations guide is a starting point for management staff looking to create a forward-thinking team that has high morale, strong retention and is fit for the future.” said Hall.
It’s a great piece of work that examines the business benefits of flexible working, and the pressures driving changes in practice in our business.
There’s also a legal imperative. Employees have the right under the Children and Families Act 2014 to request flexible working.
The Flexible Working and Public Relations guide includes contributions from Euler’s Philip Sheldrake on real time public relations and a human resources and legal employment perspective from the Employment Services Partnership’s Nina Robinson.
There’s a nine point guide for employers looking for help with implementing flexible working options that covers issues such as technology, workflow, communication, governance and culture.
There are also case studies from managers and flexible workers at the top of the business including Stripe Communication’s Juliet Simpson, Telefonica’s Nicola Green, Nelson Bostock’s Lee Nugent, Swiftkey’s Sarah Rowley Ongo’s Lisa Fleming, The PR Network’s Lisa Ellse, Metia’s Mark Pinsent, NHS Hull’s Melissa Timmins and independent practitioner Lindsey Collumbell.
Work anywhere, anytime
The NearDesk deal that we’ve negotiated for members provides access to a growing network of desk space and serviced offices that can be rented from the hour typically from between £2.50 and £10.
Think Airbnb but for hot desks. If you’re visiting a client in Birmingham, Preston or Luton, you’ll find a space to work. The £24 joining fee is waived for members and there’s a £5 credit to kick you off. To sign up as a member please visit the CIPR website.
NearDesk coverage isn’t yet completely UK-wide but it is growing fast, and there’s an opportunity for members with spare desk space to rent them out.
“Flexible working requires a significant culture change. The results can be dramatic in terms of reducing churn, increasing productivity, and the impact on the bottom line. With this in mind, why wouldn’t you want to adopt it?” said Hall.
