According to a recent report, 21 percent of small business owners cite the current labor shortage as the biggest issue facing the small business economy today. Many employers have had to pay well above the market rate to attract quality staff. This approach shows a startling lack of originality.
Of course, potential employees are unlikely to refuse a higher salary; but by the same logic, a further cash incentive could easily persuade them to move on elsewhere. Whereas if you really want to attract a loyal, motivated, and productive employee, there’s a much better way: try the remote worker route.
These are a few of the most compelling reasons why adopting flexible working practices can help narrow the skills gap for your small business.
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Remote working expands the talent pool
Recruiting for high-quality candidates is no longer limited to geographical areas. Small businesses have the freedom to hire the best of the best, no matter where the employee resides.
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Remote working improves staff retention
Working from home can give parents with childcare responsibilities the flexibility they need, while other workers can benefit from an enhanced work-life balance. Both of these factors play a crucial part in employee retention.
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Remote working helps when competing with bigger companies
Small businesses can’t always compete with larger organisations when it comes to salary and benefits, so it’s important to make the most of the advantages you do have.
A study by Buffer found that 99 percent “would like to work remotely at least some of the time for the rest of their careers.” Offering in-demand and skilled candidates the chance to work from home just might be the ultimate selling point for your business.
As small businesses struggle to fill the skills gap, more and more savvy entrepreneurs are embracing remote teams to gain an advantage in the increasingly competitive talent climate. Companies that refuse to support a remote workforce risk losing their best people and turning away tomorrow’s top talent.
