‘Flexible Work Models: How to Bring Sustainability in a 24/7 World’

For business leaders, a major task in a talent-starved global economy is to attract, retain and promote outstanding performers. In the constant war for talent, flexible jobs can be a powerful tool to overcome this challenge. As some 86 percent of Millennials expect flexibility from their employer, this new research by Bain & Company shows the benefits of a tailored, widely-used flexible work system. So far, very few companies have mastered the art of carefully designing and implementing effective flexible job models.
While many companies offer flex-work such as part-time, telecommuting and leaves of absence, this latest research shows that this is not enough. To be effective, companies need to ensure that two things happen: First, flexible work programs must be tailored to meet specific employee needs. Second, companies need to give visible evidence that these models work and are supported by management. Only then do employees feel comfortable taking advantage of flex options, which, in turn, generate greater adoption and eventually lead to a shift in the firm’s culture. The rewards can be huge: increased employee satisfaction, loyalty and retention.