The Benefits and Potential Downsides of Flexible Working in 2023

The 9-to-5 grind has been the traditional model for work hours in the UK for a long time. However, the digital age has spurred a significant shift towards a more flexible approach to work. Employers have realised the advantages of flexible working, which involves allowing employees to work outside of conventional office hours and in locations other than the company office. Yet, it's crucial to balance this flexible model with potential downsides. With the Flexible Working Bill just needing royal assent before becoming law, we thought we'd explore the pros and cons of flexible working.

What is Flexible Working?

Flexible working refers to any working arrangement where the employee has some degree of control over when, where, and how they work. This could involve flexitime, compressed hours, job sharing, home working, or term-time working. By focusing on the output rather than hours spent at a desk, businesses can cultivate an empowering work environment.

The Legal Aspect in the UK

In the UK, the previous 'right to request' flexible working legislation allowed any employee who has been with their employer for at least 26 weeks to make a formal request for flexible work arrangements. Employers must handle these requests in a 'reasonable manner,' and, if refused, they must provide an explanation.

In July 2023 the new Employment Relations (Flexible Working) Bill passed it's final reading in the House of Lords and is awaiting Royal Assent. This allows any employee to make a flexible working request from day one of employment.

The Benefits of Flexible Working

Improved Work-Life Balance

One of the most prominent benefits of flexible working is the potential for a better work-life balance. By having the flexibility to manage their own schedule, employees can more easily integrate their personal and professional responsibilities, reducing stress and increasing job satisfaction.

Increased Productivity

Despite initial reservations, research has shown that flexible working can lead to increased productivity. Without the distractions of a traditional office environment, and the freedom to work during their most productive hours, many employees thrive under a flexible model. The importance of having the correct furniture for a home office also plays a massive part in terms of productivity.

Employee Retention and Recruitment

Flexible working can significantly impact an organisation's ability to attract and retain top talent. This flexibility can be a key differentiator in a competitive job market, appealing particularly to candidates who value autonomy and work-life balance.

Potential Downsides of Flexible Working

While the benefits are significant, it's also essential to acknowledge the potential downsides of flexible working.

Communication Challenges

If not managed correctly, flexible working can lead to communication breakdowns. With teams working different hours or from different locations, it can be challenging to coordinate and collaborate. However, with the right tools and clear communication protocols, these issues can be mitigated.

Overworking and Burnout

While flexibility can lead to improved work-life balance, it also presents the risk of work encroaching into personal time. Employees may feel the pressure to be 'always on,' leading to overworking and potential burnout. It's vital to create clear boundaries and expectations around work hours to prevent this.

Lack of Team Cohesion

Physical distance can sometimes lead to a sense of isolation or lack of team spirit. Regular face-to-face meetings, team-building activities, and the use of digital tools to foster social interaction can help maintain a strong team dynamic.

Conclusion

In the evolving world of work, flexible working arrangements are increasingly seen as not just a perk, but a standard expectation. The potential benefits of enhanced work-life balance, increased productivity, and improved talent attraction and retention are clear. However, the approach requires careful management to avoid communication difficulties, the risk of overworking, and a potential loss of team cohesion. As with any significant change, the key lies in thoughtful implementation and ongoing evaluation.