Before the pandemic, most professionals maintained a traditional work schedule. Usually, that meant commuting to an employer’s worksite and remaining at a desk or workstation five days each week for at least eight hours a day. However, when the pandemic struck, the paradigm shifted. Remote work and flexibility became the norm, allowing employees to navigate unprecedented circumstances more easily.
While workplaces reopened years ago, employees’ desire for flexibility remains. In many cases, the flexibility allowed professionals to stay productive while maintaining a work-life balance. Essentially, they consider it a win-win, allowing them to look out for their well-being while meeting or exceeding expectations.
With many employers trying to force employees back into the office, flexibility is becoming the ultimate benefit to offer. Here’s a look at what flexibility can mean, how the power of flexibility helps professionals thrive, and why it’s worth providing.
What Flexibility Means at Work
Flexibility is a somewhat ambiguous term when it comes to work arrangements. For some, it’s the ability to work from a location of their choosing, including from home. For others, flexibility means setting their own hours, such as starting earlier or later, accommodating appointments, or compressing schedules.
Another potential example of flexibility in the workplace is unlimited paid time off. This doesn’t mean there aren’t constraints, such as requiring a manager’s approval or meeting deadlines. Instead, it’s primarily focused on not needing to track vacation or sick leave allotments as long as they’re hitting productivity targets.
Flexibility can also include other arrangements, such as job sharing. However, those above are most classically included in the definition.
The Benefit of Flexibility
Improved Work-Life Balance and Well-Being
Generally, the most obvious benefit of flexibility at work is improved work-life balance. Telecommuting options can eliminate commutes, while flexible work hours allow employees to effectively manage personal obligations or work when their engagement is highest. Regardless of the approach, flexibility ensures professional responsibilities don’t overtake an employee’s life, leading to job satisfaction.
In many cases, the work-life balance provided also leads to improvements in well-being. Employees with flexible arrangements typically feel less stress, making them happier. Burnout rates are similarly lower in professionals employed by companies that offer flexibility, which usually leads to less turnover and greater loyalty.
Higher Engagement and Productivity
For many professionals, remaining engaged and focused is far easier when their employer offers flexibility. Remote work can allow employees to avoid distractions that are commonly present in the workplace, leading to higher productivity. Plus, flexible arrangements are a sign of trust, which often causes employees to experience a greater sense of loyalty and job satisfaction, boosting morale and ultimately increasing productivity.
Ultimately, offering flexibility means an employer provides an excellent benefit that helps the employee and the company thrive. Premier Staffing Inc. wants to hear from you if you’d like to learn more about the power of flexibility or need to find top-quality candidates to fill open positions. Contact us today.