Alternative or flexible working schedules

Alternative or flexible working schedules

Alternative or flexible working schedules are a widespread occurrence in contemporary business. The strategy is advantageous for employers as well as employees. Employees are the main stakeholders; they gain the most advantage as it allows them to work in hours that are suitable for their respective situations. The advantages also address the development of skills as well as exposure to new opportunities, among others. However, it is critical also to appreciate the various limitations that alternative employment possesses. Nevertheless, alternative work comes in various options such as compressed work weeks, telecommuting, job sharing and flexible working schedule among others. Data identifies that alternative work is beneficial for employees.

Among the various forms alternative work assumes, telecommuting is among the most favored preferred. Employees record both higher job performance, satisfaction and loyalty. Additionally, it takes advantage of technology with employees not being required to report to physical locations. Employees also report better psychological health with less stress experienced. However, the strategy has a limitation, the coordination between the employer and employee may be difficult to attain. When the drawback is balanced with the benefits, alternative employment still posses benefits for employees. According to a study by (), they identified that flexible working hours was ranked highest among the workforce. To better appreciate the benefit of alternative work for employees, the notion should be addressed from the numerous alternative employment’s opportunities in the marketplace. It demonstrates the desire for workers seeking flexible hours. It presents opportunities for time constrained individuals such as students.

Moreover, the alternative work arrangements are targeting the young and retiring population presenting numerous opportunities for highly unemployed age groups. Additionally, it considers the difference in generational principles. Where those from the baby boomer generation were work centric, later generations seek a balance between work and social life. Therefore, alternative employment addressed the needs of both the retiring and young generations.

Nevertheless, according to the members of the World Economic Forum, alternative employment represents an increasing number of employment opportunities that offer flexible working hours and working conditions. The opportunities from such forms of employment include better balance between social and professional life, and better time management for students among others. The fundamental pace of the change from its initial discovery by the organization in 2016 has increased. As depicted in the figure (1), the majority of formal

occupations are already being automated. (Figure 1) Source: http://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_Future_of_Jobs_2018.pdf

Another study by the organization identify that the such organizations are focused on employee-centric opportunities. The approach has been identified to be small for small businesses as it increases the costs of operations which may not be beneficial. The notions towards alternative employment are also supported by Greszler (2017). Her study on Uber identified that the platform does not conform to employment agreements. Furthermore, she addresses job flexibility as an “immeasurable” form of compensation.

Counter

As previously stated, the main limitation with alternative employment is the lack of time coordination with the employer. America as a country is large containing six time zones. It may present problems when telecommuting with employers at different time zones. Additionally, employees may fail to distinguish between home work.

Conclusion

Data identifies that alternative employment is both beneficial for employers and employees. In the case of employees, the presents both job flexibility and opportunities. Employees are able to learn new skills as well as interact with influential individuals who may promote their prospective careers. In other words, alternative employment offers both occupational as well as social benefits.

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