Socially responsible companies should lead the way for other companies. Their commitment to their employees and to society as a whole is an example to follow.
Among the initiatives that promote this commitment is the EFR certification, a seal that honours family-friendly companies.
The EFR (Family Responsible Company) certificate recognises good practices in organisations that integrate models for work-life balance. As indicated by the Másfamilia Foundation “The EFR Initiative responds to a new social and business culture based on flexibility, respect and mutual commitment.”.
Organisations with this certificate have a company culture where productivity takes precedence over inflexible systems. It recognises an environment based on the performance and effectiveness of its employees.
This certification brings interesting advantages for the companies that achieve it: attract the best talent, attract new investors and, above all, improve the corporate image and reputation. On the other hand, adopting a Flexible Work Option (FWO) model improves the work climate, reduces absenteeism and staff turnover, among other benefits.
How do you get the EFR certificate?The certificate is awarded by the Másfamila Foundation to those Companies that commit to implementing and strengthening a Work-Life Balance (EFR) culture within their organisation.
To this end, companies must design and implement an EFR management model, complying with certain standards that regulate it. Once this model has been designed and implemented, companies will have to undergo periodic external audits to ensure compliance with their work-life balance policy. Once this has been passed and a favourable report issued, the Másfamilia Foundation will recognise the company's commitment and grant it the distinctive seal, thereby certifying a Business model that facilitates work-life balance for its employees (and, consequently, that the organisation is socially responsible).
To design and implement an EFR model, companies can do so using their own resources or through approved entities such as AENOR, Bureau Veritas or Deloitte, among others. These entities will be responsible for advising on, implementing and auditing the EFR management model.
Once the EFR certificate has been obtained, it will be valid for 3 years for large and medium-sized businesses and 2 years for small organisations. After this period, businesses will need to renew the certification to maintain the quality seal.
Is your company family-friendly? If it already is, the advantages of obtaining certification are numerous. If it isn't, what are you waiting for?
