Ah, the classic part-time HR role dilemma—many folks think they don’t exist, but spoiler alert: they do!
In 2024, nearly 40% of our placements in HR Generalist roles were candidates that went into part-time roles ranging from 4 day weeks to compressed hours and yes, believe it or not, 3 days a week too! It’s honestly a little wild how many believe part-time opportunities are as mythical as unicorns.
But let’s address the elephant in the room: there’s still a weird stigma around part-time work. Despite all the evidence that working less actually makes you more productive and happier (crazy, right?), some people still act like part-time hours are a big taboo.
At fólk recruitment our advice to candidates is: Don’t be shy! Ask about it! Even if the company’s initial answer is “no thanks,” you might just surprise them once you prove you’re a rockstar. Who knows? They might come around and give you that sweet 3- or 4-day workweek. It’s like asking for a promotion—you never know until you ask.
And for employers: you are missing out on top talent that could add so much value to your HR teams if you engage with and employ part-time employees.
Let’s break down the key benefits of why you should hire a part-time employee.
Lower Wage Costs: By hiring part-time workers, businesses can reduce payroll expenses, as these workers typically work fewer hours. This can be especially beneficial for smaller companies or startups that may have limited budgets.
Increased Diversity: Part-time positions attract a diverse pool of candidates, including students, parents, retirees, or people pursuing other commitments. This diversity in the workforce can foster creativity, innovation, and a broader range of perspectives within the company.
Flexibility: Part-time workers often bring greater flexibility to businesses. Employers can adjust shifts and schedules based on peak hours or seasonal demand, allowing for more effective staffing without committing to full-time contracts. This flexibility can also improve employee satisfaction, as part-time workers can have better work-life balance.
Improved Productivity: Having a mix of part-time and full-time employees can enhance overall productivity. Part-time workers may feel more focused and efficient in the hours they are working, and they can also bring specialized skills that complement the work of full-time employees.
