According to a 2021 experience survey, 43 percent of respondents said that flexible working hours helped them achieve greater productivity, and 30 percent of respondents said that less or no time commuting enabled them to be more productive.
More and more people are turning to remote work and the freelance economy to get flexibility in their work lives. A freelance job, such as a remote software developer or copywriter, means they get to manage their time, work from anywhere, and go at their own pace.
The flexible work arrangement lessens the pressure and stress on employees. In addition, it develops certain professional traits that can be very beneficial not just to them but also to employers. Flexibility isn’t only for the sake of convenience and better work-life balance. It is also because employees work harder and get more done.
Here’s how flexibility is directly connected with employees’ work productivity.
Less Time Wasted
Many employers think that working from home means people are slacking off. However, because people no longer have the work commute, in-person meetings that always run over, and in-office distractions, they are actually able to spend more time working. Sometimes, it even leads to overworking, as some workers fail to set boundaries between their work and home life.
Once managed the right way, flexibility also allows for better work-life balance. With flexible working days, employees can get more time to rejuvenate and do recreational activities, relaxing the mind and preparing them for their next working hours. Enabling people to rest when they want or need it contributes to their overall eagerness to work in the long run.
More Engaged Focus
People are more engaged in their work when they have flexibility. They can tune in when working because they don’t feel forced to sit in a chair from 9 to 5. Based on their routine, they decide how they finish tasks and work during their most productive hours. This kind of freedom also encourages creativity and innovation.
The flexibility of work greatly empowers employees and brings positive workplace morale. It provides employees with a sense of autonomy, where they can take work into their hands. Additionally, When people have more time for their personal life, they come to work with a more engaged perspective and excitement. They do not feel deprived of lunch breaks or coffee breaks.
Giving a sense of liberation allows them not to dread their jobs but rather appreciate their work and voluntarily engage.
Less Turnover
The top reasons that employees resign are often related to their salary, the opportunity they are given and the amount of respect they feel at work. Hence, research suggests that offering flexibility is the key to employee retainment.
This is because flexible work arrangements allow them to explore more and find opportunities to earn more. With flexibility, employees also get the ability to fit their work into their lifestyle. This has become the new competitive advantage when hiring employees.
Allowing people to do what they want at a particular time without the work getting in the way can make employees feel less secluded and isolated and more respected as a human being. Therefore, it is unlikely for them to experience burnout, seek a vacation or sabbatical, or look for another job.
Managers or business leaders should consider offering flexibility to their employees to maximize this benefit. You will likely retain good, dedicated employees if you can offer unlimited days off or flexible work days and hours.
More Satisfaction
People are more satisfied with their work when they feel their employer understands and cares for them. And this feeling of satisfaction is linked to boosting one’s productivity.
When employees feel that you care about them, they will care more about your company and want to do their best work. Let employees know that their voices are heard and their situations and concerns are considered.
Providing flexible working arrangements is one way to let them know you care. It also makes employees feel that they are trusted and that they can take responsibility for their work. Giving independence can lead to work satisfaction and instill loyalty in your team.
Freedom and Productivity
Flexible working arrangements give various benefits to employees, but they can deliver a significant positive impact on employers as well. Offering flexibility builds trust and creates a positive work environment and culture. It allows people to be productive in their own way, giving them the freedom to work when and how they choose. This sense of freedom will be very much appreciated by employees and will certainly offer the return of productivity and exemplary performance.