Work whatever hours you want

PwC is allowing new recruits to choose their own hours – can this solve the always-on challenge?

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News of the Big Four firm offering flexible working patterns is an interesting development to the end of the traditional 9-5 working hour’s discussion from last week.

According to the BBC, PwC has launched a new ‘Flexible Talent Network’ which allows prospective recruits to list their preferred working pattern.

So, the idea is that this scheme would attract those who only fancy working shorter weeks or even a few months a year.

PwC has also started a ‘back to business’ six-months paid internship for senior professionals who have taken a career break.  

PwC’s chief people officer said this flexible working scheme came about because “in order to recruit the best people, we recognise that we need to offer greater flexibility, different working options and a route back in for those looking to restart their careers."

A lot has been written about recruitment. While this is probably not realistic for a small practice, but could this ‘gig economy’ approach solve the talent gap some firms are feeling?

Would you consider asking your prospective recruits what hours they would like to work? Or, alternatively, would you be more interested in applying for a firm that wasn’t tied to traditional hours? 

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By ireallyshouldknowthisbut
31st Aug 2018 10:41

you will find its mainly a PR stunt.

PWC are the sort fo firm that engage you for 37.5 hours a week, but work you for 75+, so much like medical or teaching staff who want to work "normal" hours you have to agree a "half time" hours to get a standard full time role.

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By Maslins
31st Aug 2018 09:18

Sounds a bit like those "take as many days holiday as you want" things, where people quickly realise their promotion prospects/chance of being sacked revolve around the number of days they take.

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