The new shape of work is flexibility for all
The global COVID-19-induced experiment we all participated in promised a more flexible world of work. But the reality is not so simple.
Flexibility is not only about remote or hybrid working; the principles of flexibility can be lived in many different ways to meet the needs of your business and employees whether they are hourly workers or knowledge workers. It offers the opportunity to level the playing field, increase diversity, open up global mobility, put skills first, supercharge agility and utilise tech/AI. But it also comes with challenges around consistency, communication, fairness, company culture, connection and well-being.
Mercer’s July 2023 Real-Time Insights Survey paints a picture in which the majority (71%) of employers are sticking with their existing flexible working policies. Only 13% are upping the number of days on-site, while less than one in 10 (7%) are reducing them. However, this trend may be set to change.
We are standing at a precipice when it comes to flexibility. There are risks that could push a business over the edge, which is why some employers are increasingly calling for more time on-site — or, for others, it could be a chance to take a leap of faith and break the norms, with the aim to innovate and transform work.
How can employers move forward with the best fit for their organization? Intentionality is key to successfully implementing flexibility. Leaders need to be clear on their stance, and communicate the advantages it brings to their workforce, alongside the purpose of each job and how flexibility fits into this.
For more background and ideas for solving the flexibility challenge, download our report.
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