Almost 100% of Singaporean dads say they would be more productive at work if they were offered flexibility
Two-thirds (63%) of working fathers in Singapore would consider leaving a company if there was a lack of work-life programs, according to a recent survey.
Singapore is seeing an increasing shift in societal norms, as working fathers with young children are growing louder in their calls for flexibility at work.
Almost all men surveyed (95%) say they would be more productive at work if their company provided them the flexibility to manage work and family, found the study by the Tripartite Alliance for Fair and Progressive Employment Practices (TAFEP).
96% of working fathers with young children also shared that their personal well-being, such as stress and health, would be better if they could manage their work and personal life more effectively.
In terms of take-up rate of flexi-work arrangements, the number of men utilising the benefit doubled since TAFEP last conducted the survey in 2014. The study found that 34% of working fathers with young children made use of flexi-time arrangements in 2018, up from 15% in 2014. Also, 26% made use of telework arrangements in 2018, up from 15% in 2014.
Employers are also showing growing support for employees with caregiving needs. The study found that employer also demonstrated stronger support for employees with other dependents, such as elderly aged 55 years old and above, and family members that require special care.
93% of employers agree that employees with family members that require special care should have the flexibility to manage their own time and schedule as long as they meet work targets and deadlines.
Earlier this year, manpower minister Josephine Teo had spoken in support of overwhelming benefits of flexi-work measures.
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“One of my colleagues who is also a member of parliament said to me, ‘I really object to this idea of flexible work arrangements (FWAs) being just for women’,” Teo said. “’Actually in the workplace there are so many people who are compatible for FWAs.’
“And I totally agree with her because when you promote FWAs as something that only women need, then it creates a certain division in the workplace, which is that ‘oh this is for women, they need special treatment’ – not true.”
She also pointed out how flexi-work can be vital for employees who need to care for a sick elderly in their family – especially crucial when we live in an ageing society.
“The idea you have to bring on board is flexible work arrangements is…for everyone in the workplace,” she said. “The more you are able to provide it, the more likely you are able to get the spread of talent that will serve your business purposes.”