A flexible schedule allows an employee to work hours that differ from the normal company start and stop time. Particularly in an environment for exempt employees, those hours are generally 8 a.m.-5 p.m. or 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and total a 40 hour work week.
In a non-exempt workplace, often industrial or warehousing, a flexible schedule depends on the amount of interdependence required in the work. In all flexible schedules, the employer expects a full-time employee to work the required hours or more. A flexible schedule involves either a compressed work week or flexible starting and stopping times.
In a compressed work week, the most common flexible schedule is a four day work week in which employees work four ten-hour days. Variations on this flexible schedule exist. This flexible schedule allows employees to have an additional day for any activity that afords the employee more work-life balance.
A daily flexible schedule enables employees to come to work early and go home early or stay late and arrive late, or take extra time at lunch that is made up. In this flexible schedule, employers may require that employees work core hours, from 10 a.m.–3 p.m., as an example. Or, the employer may allow a flexible schedule that becomes the employee’s regular schedule, 7 a.m.-4 p.m. every day, as an example.
Even in the most flexible schedule, that allows employees to come and go at will, or telework, employers must believe that the employee is “putting in his time” and accomplishing his goals. In a flexible environment, trust is a significant factor. Measurable goals and clear expectations are also significant so the employer is comfortable with the employee’s ongoing contribution.
A flexible schedule is one of the benefits most appreciated by employees. The advantages when a flexible schedule is allowed are key.
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