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Flexibility in the workplace usually means employers and employees working together to agree on aspects of the employees' working life: the times that are worked, the place where work is done and the number of hours worked. Flexibility involves thinking in a creative way about how the employees’ working lives are structured and of finding the best way to do things. 2
When employees work on a part-time basis there are various ways in which flexibility can affect their working week. Sometimes it is better for the employee to work a few, regular days a week. At other times an employee would rather work two days one week and three days the following week, for example. In some cases the employee would prefer to work a certain number of days over a four-week period. 3
A job-share involves two people agreeing to share the responsibilities of one full-time job. There are a number of ways this can be arranged, for example by alternating weeks or by splitting the five days into 2.5 each or alternating a two-day week with a three-day week. 4
Sometimes it is possible for an employee to work from home – or from outside the normal workplace. Again there is scope for more or less flexibility here. Sometimes an employee can work from home for a certain number of days each week. At other times an employer can offer this option as needs arise rather than as something regular. Some people like to be able to work a few hours of each day at home, especially those who have to pick up young children from school, for example. They can then take a few hours out and return to work, at home, when the children are in bed. 5
People who work flexible hours are usually given a margin for their starting and finishing times each day. For example an employee could start work between 7am and 10am and finish between 3pm and 6pm. The employees work the same number of hours but are able to take children to school, avoid rush hour traffic, etc. 6
These days, job seekers expect more flexibility in the workplace. They have more caring responsibilities than a couple of decades ago and the whole issue of maintaining a healthy work-life balance has become a priority. Workplace flexibility has many benefits for employers. They find it easier to attract skilled and motivated workers if they offer flexibility. They also find it easier to retain staff. Production is increased and absenteeism is reduced because workers are able to attend to their responsibilities in the time they are away from the workplace. There is an increase in trust and respect as well as the employees usually being more focused and energetic and less stressed. Employees also benefit greatly from flexibility. Workers are better able to deal with non-work commitments when they work in a flexible environment. Employees approaching retirement age can ease their way into retirement gradually rather than suddenly. And above all, workers have less overall stress in their lives and more control. |
