Editorial TeamPromoting work-life balance is a significant focus for companies that want to attract the best employees.
During the pandemic, remote work became the norm for many employees, and most enjoyed workplace flexibility. Some fully remote workers have taken the opportunity a step further by selling their homes and moving to remote-friendly cities that offer more affordability.
But not every worker wants to hire a real estate agent and start calculating moving expenses. Some employees want to find work-life balance without working from home full time. Likewise, your company may value in-office work because of the cohesion and teamwork it promotes.
Flexible work options are even more crucial for busy working moms who are balancing competing priorities. A company that can offer options for juggling it all will help combat employee burnout while decreasing turnover and boosting engagement.
Here are six ways your company can offer flexible workplace arrangements other than remote work.
1. Flexible Scheduling
Some teams require in-person collaboration to complete a job. This is understandable, but providing the balance is important for motivating employees and promoting job satisfaction. Viewing each employee as a holistic person behind the job title is vital, and providing scheduling flexibility can demonstrate this care.
When employers provide workplace flexibility, they tell employees, “We hear what your needs are, we value you, and we are here to help you meet them.” The more autonomy, flexibility, and trust you can give employees, the more you can mitigate employee unhappiness.
A flexible schedule may look like a condensed workweek, such as working 10-hour days four days a week. Another option is to allow employees to flex their time to a schedule that better aligns with their family structure. This may allow employees to organize their working hours around school dropoffs and pickups.
Only the worst employers fail to realize that when employees can take care of their well-being, they are happier and better equipped to succeed in the workplace.
2. Paced Workloads
You can’t always control life’s circumstances. Still, you can provide opportunities to pace workloads so employees can get the job done when it’s most convenient — whether early in the morning, between naps, or after the kids are in bed.
Families with children in daycare often encounter colds and other illnesses, usually during the busiest times. Allowing employees to flex their work around caretaking responsibilities is an important part of fostering a family-friendly culture.
Additionally, as employees continue to master their job responsibilities, it might take less time for them to perform their duties. Reducing the time required for someone to do their job — while still offering benefits — is ideal for those who feel motivated and fulfilled by greater workplace flexibility. For example, some companies require employees to work 30 hours to be considered full-time.
3. Job Sharing
Job sharing allows two or more people who are employed part-time to divvy up what might have traditionally been the job of one full-time employee.
Part-time opportunities allow workers to have more free time to manage other commitments while still advancing their careers.
When knowledge and skill sharing occurs, creativity can flourish. One employee’s strengths in a role may offset the other’s weaknesses.
For job sharing to be successful, communication, delegation, and a clear understanding of expectations must be agreed upon.
4. Freelancing
Freelancing is the essence of freedom and workplace flexibility. Fortunately, more companies are relying on independent contractors.
This model allows workers to choose their employers, projects, pay rates or commissions, working hours, and much more. Employers who hire freelance staff allow workers to remain connected to the organization while expanding their skills and exploring new opportunities.
When a company hires a freelancer, it provides a self-employed individual with flexibility and an opportunity to bring fresh ideas and new perspectives.
5. Unlimited PTO
Many companies have shifted to providing unlimited paid time off (PTO) to give employees the freedom and workplace flexibility they need to enjoy life.
Removing the stress of having a limited number of days for illness, bereavement, and vacation is a unique offering. Employees often feel like a weight has been lifted off their shoulders, knowing this is an option.
This may also serve as an enticing incentive for new hires. Overall, they’re more likely to feel confident joining a new company if they don’t have qualms about “starting over” and accruing vacation days.
6. Hybrid Work Models
For employees who enjoy working from home and going into the office, a hybrid model is a perfect setup. It offers the best of both worlds, providing time for uninterrupted focus and interactive team building.
For working parents, getting everyone ready and out the door can feel like a full-time job before they even step inside an office. For working moms, in particular, removing the need to fix their hair and makeup and decide on an outfit on top of packing lunches and dropping off their kids at school is a big timesaver.
Hybrid work is still an open concept that looks different from company to company. Some ask their employees to be present in the office on specific days of the week. Others require a certain number of days or hours in the office, allowing employees to choose their schedules.
Meanwhile, some organizations only require a physical presence in the office during specific meetings or events.