Evaluating the Long-Term Effects of Flexible Working Hours on Team Dynamics

Long-term effects are increased productivity, higher satisfaction, improved recruitment, but also difficulties managing teams; flexible working hours can encourage team collaboration and innovation.

According to a 2023 survey, 58% of workers in the US consider flexible work hours important, and just under 45% of businesses cited flexible or staggered work schedules as a major change in their workflow after the COVID pandemic.

Data from the International Labor Organization shows more than 33% of all employees work over 48 hours a week. Against this backdrop, flexible working hours can help achieve a work-life balance, both for individuals and teams. In 2024, 80% of employees would prefer a job that offers flexible work hours.

Admittedly, it can be challenging to manage and supervise people with flexible hours. An employer can use a simple tool like a time card calculator to determine the exact hours worked and ensure that employees are working effectively.

Teams are more productive

Flexible working hours make it possible for people to work when they’re most productive, which boosts the team’s overall productivity. This might mean they can work from a different location, later or earlier in the day, etc. As a result, they may be able to complete tasks more effectively and efficiently.

Higher motivation and satisfaction

Employers show they value their employees’ personal lives and well-being by offering flexible working hours. This has the potential to increase job satisfaction and motivation, which can lead to improved team performance and higher productivity.

Improvements in recruitment and talent retention

Flexible working hours entice job candidates. Companies that offer them might find it easier to attract and retain talented employees, especially in areas with high competition.

Reduced turnover and absenteeism

Flexible working hours can help reduce turnover rates and absenteeism. Employees are less likely to quit their jobs or need time off when they can manage their work and personal lives more effectively. In fact, flexible working hours are linked to a 41% absenteeism reduction.

Why? Club13 notes that flexible work arrangements give employees more ways to control their work-life balance, reducing stress in the process. This leads to lower rates of absenteeism, higher job satisfaction, higher morale, etc.

Reduced risk of burnout

While employees may feel pressure to be available outside of standard business hours or work longer hours, this doesn’t translate to a higher burnout risk. A 2023 report found that 53% of employees who were dissatisfied with their level of job flexibility suffered from burnout. On the other hand, just 37% of those with flexible working hours reported burnout.

Ultimately, the report revealed that the risk of burnout for people with rigid work schedules was 26% higher. The statistics are not unambiguous because the report might cover people looking for flexible schedules, not all employees, and their varying preferences. Some people don’t want flexible working hours; they want a fixed schedule and the predictability needed to be able to plan things outside it.

Improved relations between employers and employees

Employees who can control their work hours and schedules tend to feel more respected and valued. This leads to improved collaboration, communication, and overall satisfaction within the team.

Disadvantages of a flexible work arrangement

If the flexible work arrangement involves working from home or otherwise out of the office, it reduces the opportunities for collaboration and face-to-face interaction between team members. This can lead to misunderstandings and even communication breakdowns, impacting productivity and teamwork adversely.

In some cases, flexible working hours blur the boundaries between one’s job and one’s personal life. It becomes challenging to disconnect from work.

Final thoughts

Flexible working hours have the potential to improve teamwork by increasing productivity and encouraging collaboration among team members. This has the potential to profoundly impact team dynamics. Team members share ideas, work together, innovate, and learn from each other. As they explore new work approaches, they improve processes and create value. Including flexible working hours as part of your employee benefits and perks package has the potential to improve teamwork by increasing productivity and encouraging collaboration among team members.

By Chris Bates