A Revolutionary Change: Making the Workplace More Flexible

S-CAR Journal Article
Rachel Barbour
Rachel Barbour
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A Revolutionary Change: Making the Workplace More Flexible
Authors: Jolynn Shoemaker, Amy Brown, Rachel Barbour
Published Date: February 27, 2011
Volume: 2
Issue: 2
URL:
Abstract

It is time to transform the workplace to reflect the changing realities of society. Demographics of the worldwide workforce have changed—in particular, women’s participation has increased—and such shifts are affecting worker needs. But organizations have not adapted to the expanding caretaking responsibilities and work-life balance needs of their employees, and the current workplace paradigm is placing growing stress on individuals and families. The majority of workers desire more flexibility in working environments, yet very few have it, either because such programs are not offered or because workers are dissuaded by the continuing stigma or fear of penalty associated with flexibility. A number of governments, organizations, academics, and companies are engaged in dialogue on this issue, and there have been several innovative pilot programs in recent years. Yet, despite this expanding discourse, there is a policy-practice gap, because the concept of the “ideal” worker is still associated with total dedication to the job and does not acknowledge caretaking responsibilities. We propose a new Accountability Model that is based on a universal concept of caretaking roles, a workplace that allows for and accommodates different needs at various points in one’s career and life, and an environment where employers and employees are enabled to create balanced lives while producing desired outcomes at work. Leaders at all levels play a crucial role in supporting this change.

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