Not too long ago, the average workplace ran on a strict schedule. Set working hours. Fixed workstations. Employee presence at the office 5 days a week.
This is what any average workplace looked like.
And then, the pandemic happened, changing the future of the traditional 9 to 5 workplace. Workplace flexibility became the new normal – whether anyone was ready or not. The result? Many global organizations have realized just how important a healthy work-life balance is in the long term.
A flexible workplace allows employers and employees to make working arrangements that suit them to cultivate a culture of work satisfaction, higher productivity, and improved efficiency.
So what do you mean by a flexible workplace? Why is it important? Let’s get into the details.
What is Workplace Flexibility?
Workplace flexibility starts with the willingness to adapt to change. A flexible workplace offers an opportunity for employees to work in a way that suits their needs, embracing the idea that productivity is not limited to a particular environment or time frame.
In a flexible workplace, the emphasis is on getting the job done rather than the need to work for fixed hours in a day. Workplace flexibility acknowledges the needs of both employees and employers and supports higher well-being. Flexible working can be something as basic and straightforward as choosing your own working hours and extend to advanced arrangements like-
- Job sharing
- Remote working
- Part-time work options
- Unlimited paid time off
- Flexible schedules
- Medical leaves
- Convenient arrival and departure time
Flexibility at the workplace is often seen as an excellent means of acquiring new talent and retaining the existing one with higher workforce engagement. With 73% of employees crediting flexible work arrangements for increased work satisfaction, a flexible workplace is no longer an option but a top priority of organizations worldwide.
Why Do You Need a Flexible Workplace?
The Great Resignation following the pandemic is a testament to the employee’s need for greater flexibility and convenience at the workplace. A flexible workplace is mutually beneficial. It not only promotes a positive employee experience but also helps them achieve a better work-life balance.
For employers, it means increased employee retention, productivity, and loyalty. Besides, companies adapting to flexible working have access to a wider talent pool, as they are no longer tied by geographical limitations.
Here’s why a flexible workplace is good for both the employer and the employee.
- Reduces Stress and Burnout
Traditional work setups can be extremely stressful. Employees might find it hard to fulfill their work obligations, which can also affect their personal lives. But a flexible workplace that promotes their well-being allows them to prioritize their personal needs and be at their best at work.
Flexible workplaces promote a healthy work-life balance with agile work hours, flexible locations, and unlimited paid time off. For instance, allowing them the option of remote work means they could eliminate the stress of commuting to work. Or flexible work hours will let them have extra time to devote to their life. This supports their physical and mental health, helping them be stress-free at their job.
- Higher Employee Morale and Productivity
Offering your employees work flexibility is a way of creating an environment of trust at the workplace. When employees feel valued, it boosts their morale and job satisfaction. Satisfied employees are likely to be more productive, dedicated, and efficient in their jobs.
Why? Because instead of getting overwhelmed with work in their 40-hour week schedule, flexible work schedules can help them focus on the quality of work and enjoy what they do, ultimately contributing to the company’s bottom line. In fact, a positive and flexible work environment is a catalyst for increased employee loyalty.
- Cost Savings
The benefits of a flexible workplace are not just limited to employees and their well-being; for companies, flexible working can be a financially sensible decision. For starters, think about how much you can save on real-estate costs as more of your employees work remotely. You can cut down on overheads, get a smaller office space, or rent out your existing office when not in use.
Modern-day workplace systems like desk booking solutions can help you optimize your office space by reducing the number of desks and letting your employees reserve a space for in-office days. Not to forget, employees can save significantly on time and money on their daily commute.
Safe to say, a flexible workplace is a mutually beneficial strategy that works well for both the employer and the employee.
Flexible Workplaces- Getting Started
A flexible workplace strategy starts with a flexible mindset – a few small changes can go a long way in cultivating a trusting and positive workplace culture.
- Listen to your employees; understand what kind of flexible arrangements they want
- Create a supportive environment so that your employees can openly share their ideas
- Rethink your office space; changes in a physical layout like open plans, shared spaces, and pleasing designs can reinforce your ideas of flexibility
- Invest in advanced hybrid workplace technology to help your employees make the most of this flexibility
In Conclusion
As the traditional workplace quickly becomes a thing of the past, it’s time to think flexibly. And technology can become your best weapon to make this transition seamless.
WorkInSync’s advanced hybrid solutions help build a flexible workplace. With these cloud-based solutions, employees can reserve desks, meeting rooms, parking spaces, and more. Besides, with real-time utility insights into the workplace, employers can work towards a productive workplace.