When the pandemic started in 2020, the world shifted. The labor workforce was one of the most significantly affected sectors worldwide. Most companies and employees had to work from home to prevent COVID-19 transmission.

Now that most businesses are back on track, many employees seek flexible workplaces. Flexible workplaces are ideal because 7 out of 10 employees believe it’s less stressful to present in online meetings.

As flexible workplaces become the norm, employees weigh down their edges over hybrid workplaces. Keep reading to learn more about flexible workplaces and their benefits to you and the companies.

flexible and hybrid workplaces
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What are flexible workplaces?

Flexible workplaces are working environments that allow you to control your job conditions. This system can let you choose when, where, and how to work. Since it authorizes you to work based on your lifestyle, your needs and well-being are recognized.

When companies adopt this working arrangement, they acknowledge that employees like you can still perform well. They also see that you can be productive no matter how you work.

The policies created for flexible workplaces are based on the company’s business operational structure. This is why it may vary.

Technology plays a significant role in flexible workplaces. For many, it can be used to rehumanize the way you work. For flexible workplaces, you use technology to communicate and work at home or elsewhere.

Difference Between Flexible and Hybrid Workplaces

Others may confuse flexible and hybrid workplaces. The two can be similar, but they have distinctive qualities. 

Hybrid workplaces can be considered a form of flexible working arrangement. They are described as the division between working in an office and at home. It means you work partly at the company’s office and partly at your home.

On the contrary, flexible workplaces allow you to choose the specifics of your job time, place, and manner based on company guidelines. Here, you have control of your working environment, unlike in hybrid workplaces.

Benefits of Flexible Workplaces

Many employees are seeking flexible workplaces over hybrid ones. Employers are also adopting this system to acquire a more beneficial workforce. Below are the benefits employees and companies can get from this work arrangement.

1. Encourages an ideal work-life balance

If you’re looking for a work-life balance, a flexible workplace might be the one for you. This system can encourage an ideal work-life balance because you can control your working environment. It means you can manage your life without worrying that work may interfere.

Balancing your work and life can give you time for personal endeavors like family bonding and leisure to relax and unwind. This healthy setting can motivate you to work since you have time to re-energize yourself from stress and tiredness.

2. Reduced travel costs

Having a flexible workplace can lessen your travel time. This arrangement will be ideal for you if you’re someone living far from your office. You can save time because you don’t need to travel to work.

Rather than spending unnecessary time traveling to your office, you can use your time for personal matters. Aside from saving time, you can also save money since you won’t be spending on travel costs. You do not have to buy train tickets or spend money on gas.

3. Increased productivity

When flexible workplaces have healthy arrangements, they can boost your productivity. A better work-life balance can influence this effect.

Having the time to enjoy your free time can prepare, energize, and condition you for work. Being conditioned and energized can help you work efficiently and productively. This is how flexible workplaces contribute to your performance, which in turn benefits the company.

4. Employee retention

Companies that offer flexible workplaces can enjoy high employee retention. When you’re given a working arrangement that values your well-being, you will likely stay in the company for a long time.

Employee retention can also mean fewer job quitters, which helps retain the company’s valuable workforce.

5. Appeals to high-performing applicants

Lastly, flexible workplaces can bring highly-skilled and experienced individuals into the company. They can contribute to the company’s success even if they’re from other countries.

When high-performing applicants browse job applications and see a company offering flexible arrangements, they’re likely to apply. In return, the company gains valuable employees that can drive its assets and growth.

For example, you can hire freelance writers and offer flexible arrangements. You can encourage more people to apply because they have more options when to work.

Pick the Suitable Workplace for You

Flexible workplaces can bring many benefits, but they also have disadvantages. These disadvantages may include procrastination, gadget and internet issues, reduced benefits, and isolation. It’s why a suitable workplace is up to you. After all, what matters is your comfort and preference.