QUESTION: What is workplace flexibility or work-flex? ANSWER: A dynamic partnership between employers and employees that defines how, when, and where work gets done. This alternative to the traditional business/employment model with rigid, cookie-cutter schedules is fast becoming the norm across many sectors. The broad term includes such options as telecommuting, flexible work arrangements, job sharing, compressed or reduced schedules, and a number of other variations that once would have seemed out of the question. It provides the means for employees to address both work and life needs while at the same time ensuring the needed stability and productivity companies must have to be successful. When two-thirds of candidates believe they don't need to be sitting at a desk to perform their duties, and nearly 40% of global candidates note schedule flexibility as one of the top three career decision factors, it's clear that work-flex is top of mind for today's job seekers. “Work-flex is not a reward or perk to be doled out to just those employees who have proven that they do not need it to be successful. Instead, work-flex is an opportunity to help all employees (including managers) be more successful on and off the job,” notes Kenneth Matos and Anne Weisberg. Employers have discovered that when they strive to meet job candidate expectations concerning workplace flexibility, they gain a substantial advantage in the areas of recruiting and retaining the best talent. And while employees appreciate a better work-life balance and the lower stress levels that go with it, employers benefit from increased productivity, higher retention rates, and boosted morale. Keep in mind these strategies when seeking a position that includes workplace flexibility:

• Expect and insist on detailed A surefire recipe for failure and disappointment is a work-flex scenario that launches without everyone on the same page.
• Realize that your best-fit flexible situation will probably look different than your co-workers. Be accepting of the accommodations that make the other guy/gal’s work-life balance work.
• Be willing to swap/compromise/pitch in. In other words, be “flexible” in your approach to requests from management or co-workers.
• Address immediately with the appropriate personnel any situation that becomes compromising to your position or the company at large. In a mature, responsible manner, seek to be proactive in finding resolutions.
• Recognize there’s no room for a “me only” attitude.

While few employers can accommodate every work-flex option, many can provide a range that appeals to a variety of candidates. Flexibility is all about finding balance. It’s in everyone’s interest–employer and employees alike–to provide flexible options that will create an engaged, satisfying work environment. Let MPS Technical direct you to the position that will fit your unique skill set and lifestyle. We’ll meet you face-to-face, connecting the dots of your personality, training, experience, and gifts, to find you the best opportunities in the precision manufacturing field. Check us out today.