Success of flexible working depends on both workers and firms

Both workers and firms in Singapore have to shoulder their own responsibilities to ensure the success of their flexible working arrangements.

Employees should utilise such arrangements responsibly, which include being accountable for work deliverables and remaining contactable and responsive while working from home, said Minister of State for Manpower Gan Siow Huang in Parliament. 

She added that employers should also clearly communicate their expectations upfront and manage appraisals fairly based on work outcomes instead of face-to-face time, reports The Straits Times. 

She also noted that the tripartite partners provide resources on how employers and supervisors in human resources can implement flexible work arrangements in a way that is fair, sustainable and effective.

Flexible work arrangements can help caregivers manage their role at home while contributing economically, she said. The government provides support for these groups of workers, which include subsidised care services and grants. 

READ: Singapore warns against legislating WFH arrangements

Although Singapore’s full-time female employment rate has increased to 65% over the decade, there exists a small proportion of women who are still not able to participate partially or fully in the workforce due to their caregiving responsibilities.