How do I ensure flexible working options meet employee expectations?
While offering flexible working options is a step in the right direction, organisations often fall short of aligning flexible policies with employee expectations. Our research highlights a significant gap: while 62% of employees prefer a flexible daily schedule, only 43% currently have access to one. Similarly, 60% of employees value flexible work rosters, yet only 43% are able to benefit from them.
Addressing this disconnect requires a deeper understanding of what employees value most in their working arrangements.
Employees value flexible schedules, remote work, and shorter workweeks, highlighting a shift in workplace priorities. Survey specifics: 18 countries, 18,000 employees, 5,118 HR decision leaders.
Understand What Flexibility Means to Employees
Flexibility is not a one-size-fits-all solution. For some, it might mean choosing daily start and end times; for others, it’s about being able to work remotely. Here’s how organisations can bridge the gap:
- Listen to Employee Feedback: Start by collecting employee feedback via surveys, focus groups, or one-on-one-meetings. This ensures flexible policies reflect actual employee needs.
- Educate and Inform: Once policies are in place, ensure employees understand how to take full advantage of them. Transparent communication helps prevent misunderstandings and increases uptake.
- Tailor Policies to Roles: Different roles require different levels of flexibility. For example, customer-facing roles may need fixed hours, while others can benefit from asynchronous work schedules. To make this work, it’s essential to define clear policies that set the framework for flexibility - detailing who can do what, how, and when. Clear guidelines ensure consistency, manage expectations, and help employees and managers navigate flexibility effectively.
The key to successful flexibility is balance. While employees need autonomy, businesses must also ensure operational efficiency and guarantee business continuity. Establishing KPIs and regularly assessing flexible work policies ensures they deliver on both employee satisfaction and business goals.
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