Benefits of flexible working have been studied extensively by various employers across the U.S. All studies report that flexible workers often achieved more, were happier in their work, were off sick less, worked longer hours and enjoyed a better work life balance [1]. This leads to employees who are less prone to burnout and psychological stress.
The Employee Advisory Group (EAG) worked alongside senior management, WDRS and the Payroll Department to successfully roll out Fermilab’s labwide flexible work program in March 2014. We are happy to report that since the rollout, many employees have successfully participated in the program.
Survey results based on pre- and postimplementation of the program indicate that the number of both employees and managers participating in telecommuting and flexible work schedule (flexible start and end time), as well as the alternate work schedule programs (for example, 10-hour work days with one day off each week) have increased considerably. As an example, the number of managers who take one-half day off every week has increased. Similarly, the number of employees who take one day off every other week has gone up from 0 to 17 percent. Overall, the number of people discussing the various flexible work options with their managers has increased considerably. Improved and more frequent conversations about work arrangements that support and empower employees is a good thing!
If you have any questions about the flexible work program or the survey results, please contact the Employee Advisory Group.
Farah Fahim is an electrical engineer in the Particle Physics Division. She served a three-year term on the Employee Advisory Group and was a member of the EAG work group that led the labwide rollout of the flexible work program.
[1] www.forbes.com: Why A Flexible Worker Is A Happy And Productive Worker