JMS transform working week with ‘out of office’ Friday’s

For JMS Consulting Engineers, building a motivated, happy and capable workforce is just as important as constructing the civil, structural and commercial infrastructure they’re renowned for. And whilst their latest morale boosting initiative may go against the conventional logic of many of their industry peers, the results are already speaking for themselves.

It’s no secret that the construction industry has a culture of long working hours and constant high-pressure targets to be met, so it’s refreshing to see JMS bucking the trend by scaling back working hours. At the start of 2019 they trialled a scheme where every employee within the JMS group received an extra 25 fully paid days off, to be taken every second Friday throughout the year. Unsurprisingly, these regular 3-day weekends have gone down so well that the trial period has been extended indefinitely.

Group Managing Director, Daniel Staines, said: “When the proposal was put forward to the board, it had unanimous approval. The staff at JMS work hard when they are here but we recognise that they need to be able to enjoy life outside work as well. We’ve seen a phenomenal increase in growth and turnover these last few years. That’s thanks to the hard work of my team. Now I want to make sure they’re getting the most out of their work/life balance. A 3-day weekend gives them a chance to properly wind down, enjoy the weekend and come back on the Monday refreshed. It is a benefit to everyone – including our clients.”

Work smarter, not harder

Believe it or not, the effective 10% drop in hours worked that the free Friday initiative has brought hasn’t had an effect on JMS’ productivity. “If anything, it’s increased our productivity. Because our people know that we value their time, and are prepared to reward them with more free time, they come to work rested, and ready to really give it their all. It’s about working smarter, not harder,” says Daniel. “When we took over a new consultancy recently, the staff couldn’t believe it when we told them our new policy. It’s been very well received, and it’s nice to know we’re helping our staff avoid the stress and pressure that this industry is known for.”

Not only are JMS industry leaders in bringing innovative, sustainable and attractive structures to our towns and cities, they’re also leading the way in creating an enviable work/life balance for their staff.

For further information visit the JMS Group website.