Businesses need to place more emphasis on flexible workplace options, according to the Society for Human Resources Managment.
Panelists at a recent congressional briefing hosted by SHRM and the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute indicated businesses should regard it as a necessity, rather than a benefit or perk.
One panelist pointed to research indicating that attracting and retaining top talent is expected to be a major challenge over the next decade, and another survey which found providing the flexibility for employees to accommodate life and work was the best way to meet that challenge.
Many seem to incorrectly equate flexible workplace options with office workers alone, according to one panelist. She noted one manufacturer which aided employees by providing varied shift schedules. Sara Manzano-Diaz, director of the Women’s Bureau at the U.S. Department of Labor, stated increased flexibility would benefit workers and businesses alike.
Manzano-Diaz said the failure to be flexible contributes to women leaving the workforce, as rigid policies do not leave room for care giving responsibilities. This contributes to the lack of women in mathematics, science, engineering and technology fields.
According to these experts, current, rigid business schedules are becoming less appropriate to the global economy and modern family life.
