Employers offer up pawternity leave and work from anywhere policies to woo workers

Pawternity leave and work from anywhere policies are being used by Melbourne businesses to woo workers and fight off staff shortages.

Employers are trying out their most flexible working policies ever in an attempt to woo workers.

In addition to reduced hours and increased leave, some employers are upping the ante by putting ‘Pawternity Leave’ and ‘Work from Anywhere’ policies on the table, much to the delight of exhausted and time-poor office workers.

One company hoping to fight staff shortages in the wake of the Great Resignation is Melbourne Property Developer, ICD.

Sharon Sha has been an accountant at ICD for three years and says the company’s 9-day-fortnight and flexible working from home arrangements have boosted her productivity and mental health, and given her the time needed to welcome a greatly-desired puppy to her family.

The 28-year-old pet parent said that by offering more flexible working options for their employees, companies are proving they care about their workers’ wellbeing. For other young professionals, Ms Sha believes that this is becoming a non-negotiable when seeking employment.

Sharon Sha is benefiting from flexible working arrangements. Picture: Josie Hayden

“I’m so used to this working style that it’s something that I would put at the top of my list if I was applying for jobs” she said.

“In my opinion it shows that a company really cares for their employees’ development and mental health as so many benefits are proven from this flexibility.”

Much to the delight of her dogs, Omelette and Cola, Ms Sha now has more time and energy to go on walks and socialise.

“Before the pandemic I spent most of my day in the office and by the time I got home I was down for the night. Now I’ve got a better work-life balance,” she said.

“The hours you save getting ready and commuting mean you can rest more and concentrate better during work hours.

“Going into the office five days a week I just didn’t have the energy or the time. When it’s winter and Melbourne gets dark so early you can find that extra time to go outside.”

Ms Sha hasn’t been able to see her parents in China for over two years due to the pandemic, but courtesy of the company’s ‘Work from Anywhere’ policy she plans to stay with them and work remotely for several months.

Other colleagues have taken advantage and have used the opportunity to spend time with family in Taiwan and Los Angeles while working remotely.

ICD Managing Director Matt Khoo said “the last two years have been a serious wakeup call for everyone to assess what they value.”

People are realising they want to spend more time with friends and family, have a better work-life balance, and I believe all businesses in the coming years need to adapt to these changing needs.”

Ms Sha couldn’t agree more.

“When companies embrace these policies you can tell they care for their employees’ lives, families and performance, not just career-wise but also in their physical and mental health.”

Originally published as Employers offer up pawternity leave and work from anywhere policies to woo workers