Many companies have had no choice but to give remote working a try, while others have been doing it for quite some time. As it turns out, employees enjoy the option, as do employers. Now that it’s time to head back to the office, some businesses are opting for a flexible schedule, which gives employees even more choices. Let’s look at why companies are choosing flexible work schedules.
What Is a Flexible Schedule?
A flexible schedule offers many types of schedules, depending on what the company chooses. The best way to determine the right flexible schedule for your employees is to talk with them and see what they hope to gain from flexibility. When planned well with all employees working as a team, whether at home or in the office, the flexible work environment is positive and productive.
A typical flexible schedule allows employees to choose which days they’ll come to the office and which days they’ll work remotely. For example, an employee may choose Mondays and Fridays in the office and Tuesday through Thursday at home. The actual scheduling is up to employees and employers, but the gist of it is flexibility.
Employees Are Happy
Many employees have found they love the ability to work from home, along with a chance to work at the office now and then. Here’s why employees are in favor of flexible schedules:
- Balance
Situations are seldom perfect, but with flexibility in work scheduling, employees have a greater chance of finding work-life balance, which is the constant struggle between career and personal life.
- Commuting
Little to no commuting to and from the office means more time at home, less gas money and maintenance on vehicles, and zero stress from traffic and congestion.
- Family Time
For employees with children, a flexible schedule allows them the opportunity to possibly drop kids off at school before work. It also gives parents a chance to give a hug when needed when both kids and parents are home. There are endless reasons why a flexible schedule is helpful for parents.
Employers Are Happy
Flexible schedules aren’t just for the employees. Employers are happy with the idea too, and it’s the other reason why companies are choosing flexible work schedules. Employers enjoy the same benefits as employees, such as balance, less time spent commuting time and stressing out, and more family time. They also enjoy a couple of additional benefits from flexible schedules:
- Cost Savings
The less office time needed, the lower the cost to run the building. Some companies only offer the office for work on certain days. The other days, everything in the office building is shut off, saving on energy bills.
- Downsizing
As more employees choose a flexible schedule, some will choose fully remote. In this case, office spaces become more than what the company needs. When the company downsizes office space, they save money on leasing, utilities, and upkeep.
- Happy Employees
A company is only as successful as its employees. When employees are happy with their schedules, they’re more productive and loyal to their company.
As you consider flexible scheduling for your company, keep these three things in mind—cost savings, balance, and happy employees. Times change, and it may be time to change things up in your company.
