The Benefits of a Flexible Job

A schedule that adapts to your needs

We all have a life outside of work. Whatever your circumstances are, a flexible job usually makes it easier for you to arrange your schedule to make time for personal or family obligations.

Higher job satisfaction

By giving employees more control over their own schedules, many employers have seen better focus and higher job satisfaction.

This satisfaction also usually translates into productivity gains for the company and reduces presenteeism. Offering flexible work options also plays an important role in attracting and retaining talent. People who are happy at work are more likely stay at a company for a long time.

In other words, it’s a win-win situation.

Reduced transportation expenses and concerns

Flexible work, whether it’s hybrid mode or telework, means that employees can spend considerably less time and money on their commute. These savings also include fewer meals eaten out and clothing costs. It’s a great way for your budget to go further, especially in a time of rising inflation.

Of course, flexible work also saves time and hassle. And, with the omnipresent fight against climate change, it also helps you reduce your carbon footprint.

A decentralized workplace

Thanks to new information and communication technology, geographic barriers are breaking down. The centralization of jobs into large city centres which made it more difficult to find a job outside those centres no longer exists.

This is a significant paradigm shift. A study from Statistics Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic which analyzed the task content of all types of occupations in the Canadian economy suggests that telework capacity—i.e., the proportion of jobs that could plausibly be done from home—is about 40% nationally. 1

The democratization of flexible work, particularly telework, opens up opportunities to professionals who don’t want to have to relocate for their next job. It’s now possible to work remotely and only go into the office occasionally.

For some types of jobs, it’s even possible to work wherever you like. You should still probably avoid working in the bath though, water and electronics don’t mix!

Finally, if your employer offers flexible options like these, it's best to be informed before taking the plunge into your new professional life. To better understand the benefits and challenges, take a look at our articles Work-life balance, or the art of being imperfect and How to stay healthy working from home to help you make informed choices about your personal and professional life.