Flexibility at work has become a buzzword in the last couple of years. Millennials have listed flexibility as one of the most important factors when it comes to their work. But what do people really mean when they say flexibility?
Is it about hours or work? Is it about where they work? Is it about how they work?
While all these things fall under the remit of flexibility, it is a topic that merits more than merely a few bullet points in company policy...
Flexibility is adaptability
In short, flexibility means how willing the employer and employee are to adapt to change, unforeseen circumstances, and each other. Flexibility, when done right, benefits everyone in an organisation and can be the solution to a healthier work-life balance.
A strict 9 to 5 job is rare these days – there are so many needs from both employer and employee that need to be met, and schedules hinder the adaptability required from all parties at work. We’re now in 2021, where remote jobs are the norm, freelance work has grown in popularity, and the needs of both corporation and employee must be met with equal importance.
Flexible employees
Flexible employees are people who take charge of their work. They put the needs of the company on a par with their own needs and do what is necessary to ensure the smooth running of the organisation. They are tasked with items that may not necessarily fit into their remit but are able to adapt to the needs of the organisation.
Flexible employees are required to modify their ways of working on a daily basis, simply because not all days are the same.
Flexible employers
Flexible employers, contrary to popular belief, are not the opposite of flexible employees but are their counterparts. A flexible employer knows that while the needs of a company are important, employees’ needs do not come in second place.
A flexible employer accommodates exigencies in the personal life of employees, delegates tasks efficiently, and above all, is understanding. Adjusting to an employee is essential to ensure a harmonious flexible environment.
How to be flexible
Despite what many may think, flexibility does not mean leaving work early because ‘you can’. Flexibility means giving and receiving. No, matter if you’re an employer or an employee, working together is key to achieving it.
Flexibility means learning new things to increase workplace productivity. If you’re an employer, it means giving employees space to learn and grow without added unnecessary pressures of work.
Flexibility means being able to go to your child’s Parents’ Day or work around online school lessons, without having it deducted from your vacation leave. In turn, it also means working extra to meet deadlines and making up for those hours when the company is also going through changes.
Flexibility means open communication, room for constructive criticism, and working towards a common goal.
Flexibility means trying to go the extra mile every day because, on the days that you cannot, your employer will have your back.
It all boils down to efficiency and company culture. As an employer, cultivating workplace flexibility is essential. It all stems from company culture, your policies and procedures, and deep down, your frame of mind. Flexibility at work is easier said than done, however, it’s imperative that a company keeps the smooth running of the organisation at the core of all their policies in order for them to be a success.
Here at Ceek we take pride in being fully committed and flexible in our approach. Whether you’re an employer looking for bespoke recruitment services or a candidate searching for your best match, Ceek is always here to help. Get in touch today!