01-11-2007
Flexible working practice best for SMEs
News by Adfero for Simply Business - independent providers of business insurance, business finance, landlord insurance, buy-to-let mortgages & commercial mortgages.
Small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have been advised that it may be necessary to show flexibility in order to effectively compete, it has emerged.
According to comments made by Jo Causon, director of marketing and corporate affairs for the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), the adoption of such a flexible approach may make it necessary for SMEs to utilise the skills of freelance staff.
It was noted that freelance workers may prove to be useful in instances where staff are unexpectedly absent from the workplace, or where there is a sudden influx of work.
"To seize opportunities quickly and effectively in a competitive market, small and growing organisations must have a certain degree of flexibility," said Ms Causon.
"[However,] parachuting in freelance or short-contract workers to address longer-term skills issues is not a solution," she added.
As a solution to addressing concerns within the business that relate to skills, Ms Causon recommends that SMEs should make use of relevant professional development programmes.