Written by Andrea Starbuck – Ten2Two

“We first went to the Kent Women in Business Awards, KWIBA in 2013 as a fledgling business trying to make connections and better understand the Kent business community. It was fantastic to be able to return this year, 4 years later and support the event as a sponsor. We spoke on the evening about the changing face of how business is building teams. In particular, flexible working. Don’t panic I am not about to repeat myself but wanted you to hear it from the horse’s mouth.”

The employers story:  Barnaby Webb, Director at Cobbwebb Communications

What made you consider a flexible worker?

“As a growing business in the IT sector, we were looking to employ two new members of staff in the key areas of Finance and Sales and Marketing but recognised this did not require a full-time person. We wanted to tap into the local talent pool of professionals that had, for one reason or another, taken a career break and were looking to get back into employment. We understood that this talent pool would require some flexibility in their work model.

We approached Ten2Two to help us in this search as they specialise in this type of candidate and recruitment.” 

Did you find the what you were looking for?

“The quality of candidates was exceptional and every one was worth the time we spent interviewing them. In both instances, we were left with a difficult but enviable choice. The two new members of staff have made an immediate impact on the business and are a perfect fit with our company culture and ambition.”

What tips would you give other employers considering this type of recruitment?

“We worked hard on developing accurate job descriptions this helped with identifying the flexible pattern. We carefully consulted with the current team talking about how the new members may affect their productivity. We have found it vital to set clear achievable targets for the time frame available.”

The candidate: Kristen Reed – Sales and Marketing

Why were you looking to work part time?

“I started talking about going back to work after a short break to look after my daughter.  I wanted to continue to be around for her but wanted to go back to a career that gave me some flexibility to do this.”

How did you prepare for finding this role?

“Finding this type of flexibility was difficult. I was fortunate to come across Ten2two who helped me make sure my CV was looking sharp and reminded me about LinkedIn. I also made sure my ducks were in line at home.”

What are the positives about working part-time? 

“I tell so many people how grateful I am for the opportunity to have a job so close to home and be able to drop off my daughter at school and be there for pickup. I am focused with my time at work and make sure that my commitments are met to allow more freedom in my down time. I have also really enjoyed being back in the workplace and working around adults and being just me using my skills and experience adding value to the business.”

Do you have any tips to share about flexible working or returning to work after a break?

“Get prepared, consider all aspects including economic, emotional and the practical.  Be open minded to suggestions that suit your transferable skill set. Don’t be afraid to try something new. Be honest with yourself.”

ShareShare A work returner and employer share their experience of Flexible working.
So there you have it a real success story from a real business.

To discover more about how flexible working could benefit your return to work, or your business visit https://www.ten2two.org/