Some, but not all, companies are taking baby steps toward becoming more family-friendly, according to new research from staffing firm OfficeTeam. Just under half (49%) HR managers interviewed said their organization has made policy changes to better accommodate working parents in the past 5 years.
The research was compiled using information from recent OfficeTeam surveys. The surveys of HR managers and workers were developed by OfficeTeam. They were conducted by independent research firms and include responses from more than 300 HR managers at U.S. companies with 20 or more employees, and more than 500 U.S. workers 18 years of age or older and employed in office environments.
When employees were asked which family-friendly perk would have the greatest impact on their decision to join a company, the clear winner was flexible hours (79%). Sixty-eight percent of HR managers said their organization provides this option. Respondents identified a maternity/paternity leave policy (79%) as the most common employer offering.
“With half of companies offering more family-friendly benefits in recent years, the onus is on organizations that have not kept pace to revisit their policies,” said Brandi Britton, a district president for OfficeTeam, in a press release. “Employers should actively promote their programs in this area to attract and retain top workers.”
Britton added, “Having extra time with family can be a game changer for staff. Perks like flexible schedules and telecommuting are attractive to all employees because everyone appreciates work-life balance, whether that means being able to take care of obligations at home or pursue personal interests.”
The infographic below showcases further findings from the research.
