MEN ALSO SEEK WORKPLACE FLEXIBILITY

As opposed to the popular belief that women, especially working mothers, prefer workplace with flexible work hours, a study has revealed that men too are increasingly opting for such options. According to a survey by job portal TimesJobs.com, over 62 per cent of the men stated that flexibility is indeed an important factor for them in a job. About 45 per cent of organisations said that men are largely using this option for child/family care, while 31 per cent use it to study/upskill themselves. Over 80 per cent women use the flexi option for child care and a mere 20 per cent use it to train/ upskill themselves. "Changing socio-cultural dynamics and increasing trend of nuclear families is seen as the primary reason behind the growing usage of flexibility option by men, said nearly 66 per cent of the organisations," the report said. Among the various flexibility programmes being offered by organisations, part-time schedules and flexi-time are the most widely offered work arrangements across sectors. Close to 40 per cent organisations offer these programmes to its employees. A combination of programmes tailored to fit employee's needs is offered by 16 per cent of the organisations. Experts believe being flexible creates an environment where employers and employees can look at work and personal needs in a balanced approach, which is mutually beneficial and close to 60 per cent of the organisations are likely to implement more flexibility options in the near future. "Workplace flexibility policy can lead to increased employee morale, increased retention rate, higher commitment levels, reduced absenteeism and increased individual and business output, provided it is effectively implemented and managed," Xavient India Human Resource Director Deepika Pillai said.