‘Right to Disconnect’ policies are gaining momentum across the world. Laws condemning work-related communications outside of contractual hours are already in play in countries such as France, Belgium and Portugal, though the UK is yet to introduce its own legislation. Here, Kristian Torode, director and co-founder of business communications provider Crystaline, explores how SMEs can cultivate a motivated, productive workforce by encouraging a healthy separation between work and personal life.
A lot of us check our work emails more than we’d care to admit. The digital age has opened a world of new opportunities for communication and connection, but this doesn’t mean we should feel obligated to be available at all times. In fact, establishing a distinct boundary between work and personal time is crucial for employee wellbeing.
However, over half of UK employees feel they have to check for emails, messages or calls after work, found a 2022 YouGov survey published by Business in the Community (BITC). This may stem from the rise of remote and hybrid work associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. As flexible models have become more commonplace, working hours have morphed and many workers now find it difficult to separate work from leisure.
Though flexible working affords employees many benefits, it has also triggered a shift towards an ‘always on’ mentality that obligates employees to be constantly alert and responsive to work communications, no matter when they come in. This mindset is ultimately counterproductive as it creates stress which prevents employees from properly resting before starting a new day of work.
This has already been recognised by countries with ‘Right to Disconnect’ laws. While no such legislation exists in the UK, this could be on the verge of changing. Earlier this year, Labour published a green paper titled Labour’s Plan to Make Work Pay, outlining better working practices that included a ‘right to switch off’. Future iterations of the Employment Rights Bill, first introduced to Parliament on 10 October, could see some of these practices realised in the near future.
Switching off to recharge
Building a productive workforce starts with a measured approach to digital tools and devices. To cut down on hardware costs, many SMEs favour ‘bring-your-own-device’ (BYOD) policies, which state that employees should use their own personal mobiles for business communications, rather than company-provided mobiles. However, combining business and personal communications on one device blurs the work-life boundary, making it more difficult for employees to truly switch off after work.
Instead, SMEs should consider the many benefits of business mobiles. With separate work mobiles, employees can remove themselves from a working mindset more easily by physically switching off or silencing their devices. This is clearly advantageous for employee wellbeing and satisfaction, but it also benefits business. Rested, engaged employees will be more productive and are much more likely to stay with the company for longer.
Additionally, by choosing to equip your workforce with business mobiles, you can ensure that all company devices are compatible with one another. Giving everyone access to the same software and features establishes continuity across the business, which simplifies training and streamlines company-wide communication. Therefore, business mobiles can play a crucial role in connecting employees during work hours but also in encouraging a healthy boundary between work and leisure that serves both you and your employees.
Finding the right fit
Deciding to supply business mobiles is one thing, but finding the best plan is another. To make this process easier, Crystaline can evaluate the current and potential future needs of your business and advise on the most suitable option.
For example, business mobiles for use in non-office environments such as warehouses or construction sites might require additional accessories like protective cases and screen protectors. Alternatively, you might prioritise low-international call rates because your business operates with global contacts. Whatever your business requires, Crystaline can compare mobile networks, tariffs and hardware to find a bespoke mobile solution at a competitive price.
Out-of-hours business communications have been normalised for far too long but companies can reinforce healthier working practices with separate business mobiles. While ‘Right to Disconnect’ policies are yet to become mainstream in the UK, SMEs should see this as an opportunity to take a proactive approach to maintain their competitive edge.
To find out more about the business mobile solutions available from Crystaline, visit the website or get in touch.