It’s Tuesday evening and it’s puking up there. Wednesday’s forecast is for bluebird conditions and 30cm of fresh. But there’s a desk in a cube farm with your name on it. We caught up with Paul Swettenham of Sunstone Recruiting to find out how to break the weekend warrior cycle and get more fresh turns.
Flexible working is the modern-office promise, but Paul says your contract is not the most important thing.
“To get flexibility in your job boils down to one thing - your BOSS,” says Paul. “Even if your organisation or company has a flexible work policy if your boss is old school and requires you to be at your desk - you can kiss your powder dreams goodbye.”
Research shows that flexible working creates happier, more productive and stable workers. It also increases retention. And with so many tools for a mobile workforce, there’s really no excuse to not allow flexible work time.
Of course, it does depend what you do. “Flexible work is not so easy if you work in a shop, operate heavy machinery, or work in a hospital where bailing at the last minute just isn't possible. Although if you do work shifts this can work in your favour with blocks of work off or working nights can free up day time for your shot in the white stuff.”
Paul says the reality for most people is that it comes down to being able to take 'annual leave' at short notice.
Check your contract - does it require two weeks notice for a day day off?
“The reality is most companies have this in their contracts….again it comes down to your direct boss…is he or she a good rooster?”
When job hunting, Paul suggests sussing out the company culture. “Are they relaxed outdoorsy types or hard-arse work-you-like-a-dog-tyrants?”
Paul’s pow-chasing career advice:
When choosing a career - think about if this work offers flexibility?
Does the type of work have potential, as you gain experience, to become a consultant or contractor? Or can the job be managed with a mobile?
Do you just get closer to the source and become ski patrol or a ski guide? Great to live the dream but it can also 'become work' but ultimately you'll get more pow days so well worth considering
When going for a new job - suss out your potential boss - are they a skier or snowboarder? Or just new school and understand flexible working?
Ask the team members if the role is ACTUALLY flexible??