What are Flexible Work Arrangements?
A flexible work arrangement is any one of a spectrum of work structures that alters the time and/or place that work gets done on a regular basis. The term includes, but is not limited to:
- Flexibility in the scheduling of hours worked, such as alternative work schedules (e.g., flex time and compressed workweeks), and arrangements regarding shift and break schedules
- Flexibility in the amount of hours worked, such as part-time work and job shares
- Flexibility in the place of work, such as working at home or at a satellite location
Why Consider Flexible Work Arrangements?
Job flexibility is important for many employees. Flexible work arrangements can have significant organizational and individual benefits that build engagement and allow employees to meet their personal needs while contributing to the funeral home. Offering flexible work arrangements can also help with employee retention and recruiting.
What do I need to be Aware of Before Implementing a Flexible Work Arrangement?
Consider the following points in developing a plan to effectively manage the work of individuals working a flexible work arrangement:
- What are the anticipated effect on the funeral home’s goals and commitments, including costs, service, safety and security?
- What are the benefits for employees and the funeral home?
- What are the potential problems? How can these be addressed?
- Does the employee’s productivity and overall work record demonstrates the ability to fulfill the terms of the proposed arrangement?
- What time, effort and money will it take to make the flexible arrangement successful?
An agreement should be developed outlining the terms and conditions of the flexible work arrangements. Here are a few more things to consider when developing and documenting the arrangement:
- Establish a plan that ensures clear communication and accountability.
- If the arrangement involves flexible hours or an alternative work location, specify the days and times when the employee will be on site for meetings and to communicate directly with other team members.
- Before agreeing to long term proposal implementation, establish the arrangement on a pilot basis with a designated review period. During the pilot period, either the employee or supervisor can end the arrangement.
- If an arrangement results in a reduction in the employee’s scheduled work hours, make sure that the employee understands any implications on current employment agreements such as compensation, status or benefits eligibility.
- Make sure all parties understand the terms of the arrangement and that once the arrangement is implemented its continuation depends on the arrangement working effectively for both the employee and the funeral home.
- Document all pertinent details of the arrangement, including work hours and schedule, performance plan with measurable outcomes and a review schedule and provide the employee with a copy.
Should I Limit the Numbers of People who can have a Flexible Work Arrangement?
Every employer has their own needs and abilities to provide flexible work arrangements. Some managers have found it workable to allow a great deal of flexibility. In other workplaces, only a limited number of positions lend themselves to flexible work arrangements. If you are not sure what will work for your funeral home, start small with a commitment to review your practices as you and the workgroup gain experience.
How can I Avoid Having to Change my Own Work Schedule to Effectively Manage Employees with Flexible Work Arrangements?
You need to be confident that the work will get done whether you are present or not. Establishing an arrangement on a pilot basis can allow you to determine whether the arrangement is likely to work on an on-going basis. You should also determine the results you need in order to evaluate the effectiveness of a particular arrangement.
How can I Ensure that Employees do not Assume that Alternative Work Schedules are “Permanent”?
Establish a clear, common understanding of the terms of an arrangement by putting them in writing. Share a copy with the employee and place a copy in the employee’s file. Make sure that the written agreement states that the arrangement is subject to revision based on funeral home work requirements.
Tools and Resources
Sample Flexible Work Arrangement Request Form
WorldatWork has created a sample Flexible Work Arrangement Request form to use when an employee requests a change to their regularly scheduled work hours and/or work setting.
Online Resources
The Alliance for Work-Life Progress is dedicated to advancing work-life as a business strategy integrating work, family and community and offers a variety of on-line resources including free download of articles, assessments and sample forms.
