Woman's Business - The Professional and Business Woman's Business Journal

By Rita B. Allen

The last decade has brought about numerous changes in the employment marketplace as
well as many options in the workplace. More than ever, professionals are opting for flexible work schedules, including part-time positions, job sharing, flex time, home offices and
reduced work schedules.

Once viewed as a luxury, these options are becoming more and more accepted as viable, successful work models. In many cases, these options have become necessities to compete in a volatile marketplace.

As our country and economy faces challenges, corporations are recognizing the strategic value of providing flexible work schedules.

Business leaders have grown to appreciate the rewards and benefits of providing options, which result in financial success and productivity as well as intangible rewards such as loyalty, commitment and goodwill.

The population of the work force that desires this type of work model has increased and evolved.

All types of employees are requesting quality of life throughout various demographics and it ranges from younger to older, male and female, professional, semi-professional and senior management.

This is all good news. The reality remains, however, that it requires creativity, resourcefulness and tremendous resilience and flexibility to create these models within our work force.

Management still needs help in identifying the potential gain, possible scenarios and situations where such a model can be achieved.

It takes initiative to seek out, propose and implement these programs. Senior management must be educated on the strategic need for these types of policies to be competitive.

With corporations facing much uncertainty, cost-cutting, tightened budgets and reduced head-count, it could become increasing difficult to sell this concept.

Many surveys indicate across the board, however, that quality of life remains in the top five factors that all employees look for in their current positions and companies.

It is imperative that companies continue to forge ahead successfully implementing and managing such programs.

The best advertising is a strong track record. Making a case is increasingly easy with so many success stories. The key is to focus on the value-add of a work schedule based on a detailed, specific, accomplishment-driven plan bent on achieving results.

Ten Tips