In the 2021 Digital Worker Experience Survey conducted by Gartner, 43% of respondents claimed that having flexible work hours increased their productivity.
In the workplace in 2024, flexibility is no longer viewed as something for a chosen few, but rather as a must. There has been a significant change in the workplace since the COVID-19 outbreak because managers and staff have found new, effective ways to do tasks that may yield comparable, if not better, outcomes. At work, employees want to feel autonomous and free. This can occur when people are able to choose who, what, and how much they work for in addition to when and where they work.
Impact of flexible work arrangements on productivity
Businesses that support flexible work arrangements reap a number of benefits and impacts that have been demonstrated. For instance:
Work-life balance - It is said that employees with excellent work-life balance outperform those with poor work-life balance in terms of productivity. Because flexibility affords employees autonomy over their time, they can work more quickly and effectively to accomplish objectives.
Reduces employee burnout - The main causes of employee burnout are often ongoing exhaustion and job dissatisfaction. Stress and anxiety are brought on when employees don't feel like they have the flexibility to change their schedules. Employees with flexible work arrangements are reported to be less worried and nervous compared to employees without flexible work arrangements, with the latter experiencing a detrimental influence on their productivity and well-being.
Increases job satisfaction - When an employee is happy in their position, they are probably going to be more productive. Increasing flexibility inside the company is a positive step towards increasing output. Aside from pay and benefits, employees value job satisfaction above everything else when choosing a position. These days, everyone prioritises their mental health and looks for ways to improve both their financial and emotional well-being when making decisions, and consequently are more inclined to be productive.
Reduces employee turnover - By giving employees flexible work schedules, you can keep valued employees on board. One of the most sought-after advantages during negotiations is flexibility; in fact, some talented candidates choose not to apply for positions without it. Employees who feel free at work are more likely to work long hours and prioritise their personal life over seeking out new chances.
Is flexibility for everyone?
Although companies strongly support flexible work arrangements, is this to everyone's advantage? The short answer is no, since it is crucial to acknowledge that while flexible work schedules provide many advantages, not everyone can make use of them. While some people think that flexible work hours blur the barrier between work and home because they dislike taking work home, others find that they work more productively in the traditional 9 to 5 office routine. Therefore, when we adopt this new work structure, we should also remember that, despite its benefits, it may not be suitable for everyone.
If you need support with setting policies for flexible working, please email enquiries@ovacgroup.com, for a free consultation with our team specialists.
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