Flexible Work Schedules are Becoming Increasingly Important - Here's Why

The traditional 40-hour work week is no longer the norm for many organizations. As corporate culture has become a top priority, employers have taken into consideration the long-term benefits of offering flexible work schedules. The US Department of Labor defines a flexible work schedule as "anything outside the traditional 40-hour, 9-5 workweek is flexible, adding that giving your employees the freedom to arrive and depart from work at varying times is also something that can be considered a flexible schedule."

There are four types of flexible schedules that employers have integrated within their organizations:

Telecommuting

Telecommuting is a popular option because an employee can work from home occasionally. This is a favorable option for an employee because it reduces time in traffic and there are fewer distractions when an employee can work from home. Also, employers benefit from increased productivity.

Flex-Time

A flex-time schedule is where an employee does not have set or specific hours but is required to complete all the assigned work based on the number of hours that have been agreed upon by the employer and employee. The employee benefits from flex-time by having a good work-life balance, and the benefit to the employer is higher job satisfaction and lower turnover rate.

Part-Time

A part-time schedule permits an employee to work fewer hours and shorter shifts. This is a good option for a student, for example. The benefit to the employee is the ability to pursue their educational goals and progress in their career. This benefits employers because employees have a greater sense of being valued, since the employee often appreciates the support of leadership.

Compressed Work Week

Another example of a flexible work schedule is a compressed work week. Instead of working an eight-hour day, five days a week an employee has the option to work ten hours for four days, allowing three days off instead of two. This benefits the employee by reducing levels of stress and an improvement in an employee's overall well-being. The benefits to an employer are increased morale among employees.

Flexible work schedules are the new normal and are increasing in most businesses. When it comes to retaining employees and keeping them happy, sometimes flexibility is the best policy. A flexible work schedule gives an employer better options when seeking candidates to hire. In addition, employers benefit from an increased level of engagement from an employee due to an employee having choices with the work schedule. A flexible work schedule is an asset and improves a team's dynamic.