The 9-5 grind is so 2019.
Throughout the past few years, we’ve learned a thing or twenty about the importance of workplace flexibility—especially on our physical, mental, and emotional health. But while this buzzy little term can have a big impact on employee engagement and retention, we know it can be confusing. Does flexibility in the workplace mean working remotely? Should we all be advocating for shorter work weeks? And what’s this about unlimited paid time off?
If you’re wondering how to make workplace flexibility a thing—and how Workhorse Coworking fits into the mix—you’re in the right place.
The 4-1-1 on Workplace Flexibility
For decades, professionals in all sorts of industries trudged through mega-challenging work environments and toxic cultures that prioritized hustle over humans. Flexibility? Never heard of it.
Safe to say: we definitely had it all wrong.
But then the COVID-19 pandemic hit, sparking a reevaluation of how work fits into our lives (and not the other way around). And now that Millennials and Gen Zers make up most of today’s workforce, it’s clear that flexibility in the workplace isn’t just a fad.
Now here comes the even better part: There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to creating workplace flexibility. In fact, flexibility in the workplace these days can look like:
- Flexible hours, which give employees the autonomy to complete their work at a time that’s convenient for them while still meeting important deadlines.
- Shorter work weeks where employees work four 10-hour days, for example. In Washington, San Juan County is piloting a 32-hour work week!
- Remote or hybrid work arrangements that leverage technology to keep folks connected and productive.
- Unlimited paid time off—a solution akin to flexible scheduling that prioritizes deadlines instead of meeting a specific number of hours each week.
Three Cheers for Work-Life Harmony
No matter the setup, flexible workplaces require a high level of mutual trust and effective two-way communication between organizations and their people. When these elements are in place, employees are more likely to stay motivated to do their very best work. And because they’re given latitude over when and how they work, the benefits carry over to employees’ personal lives, too.
For their part, organizations that embrace flexible work for staff reap the rewards of higher employee satisfaction and retention—which is actually a cost savings in itself. Research shows that professionals who are treated as individuals and afforded options for flexible work are also more productive each day, providing another boon to an employer’s bottom line.
Making Flexibility Work
Aside from trust and communication, helping employees understand business objectives and goals is a key part of creating a more flexible workplace. We get it: As a business leader, your to-do list is longer than a Rite Aid receipt (and growing by the day). But bringing people along on this journey matters—and it sets them up for success. (They are your most valuable assets, after all.)
Having a variety of areas to work in is also an important part of improving flexibility in the office—and not to brag or anything, but this is kind of our jam.
At Workhorse Coworking, we’ve thoughtfully designed our spaces to meet the needs of today’s professionals by offering flexibility for employers and employees alike. Our private offices highlight the can’t-beat views Edmonds is known for and provide ample room to make your moves (and your money).
We also offer dedicated desks and hot desks for a coworking experience that’s a tad more collaborative. And with 24/7 building access for Hot Desk members and above, you can burn the midnight oil whenever creativity strikes. Check out our guide to conference room setups to see exactly how to have a productive meeting in one of our three meeting rooms!
But what we’re most proud of is the community of professionals who spend their days (or maybe their nights) with us—learning, growing, and leading together. It’s one of the perks of flexible workspaces, and a pretty cool one at that. (Although let’s be honest, none of our amenities stink.)
Work (Flexibly) With Us in Edmonds
Whether you come alone or with your well-behaved doggo at your side, we’d love to have you join us at Workhorse Coworking. Settle into your flexible workspace home, or visit for a day (the first day is free!) to see what we’re all about. We’ve got your back—whenever you want to work.