'They're still connected, creating and producing, instead they’re doing it from home'
As New Zealand begins its recovery from COVID-19 and moves into Level One, organisations are being urged to implement permanent flexible working initiatives.
Indeed, decision-makers, Government Departments and businesses should use the learnings from the last two months and consider flexible working the norm - not the exception, according Jacinda Thorn, Chair of The Kāpiti Chamber of Commerce.
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“I was very disappointed to see comments from Grant Robertson, the Finance Minister, that the ‘office environment boosted productivity’,” added Thorn.
“Where practicable, people have remained productive and continue working since Lockdown began – they’re still connected, creating and producing, instead they’re doing it from home.”
According to Thorn, one of the few silver linings to emerge from the Lockdown and the associated economic impacts is the fresh thinking about what our workplaces look like and how they function.
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“I’ve spoken to a number of businesses, workers and owners who have all appreciated the opportunity to give flexible working a go – and most importantly it’s working,” said Thorn.
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Dot Loves Data last week revealed retail spending was up 15% in Kāpiti in the early stages of Level 2, spurred on by more people working at home.
“Everyday thousands of people leave Kāpiti to work in Wellington, where they spend money on coffee, lunch and shopping,” added Thorn.
“If more people work at home, they will spend more locally; cushioning our economy as the true impacts of COVID-19 begin to be felt.”
Thorn said their will also be a reduction of pressure on the “already congested roads and train networks” - commuters lose hundreds of hours every year battling traffic jams and contending with train delays.
“Of course, this may not be physically possible for all businesses, but for those who can implement, we’re urging them to do so, and embrace New Zealand’s new normal. Now is the best time we’ve ever had to do it.”