Why Flexibility at Work Could Be Your Career's Biggest Ally

Welcome to Career Well-being. Each week Ana Goehner empowers professionals to prioritize well-being with practical work-life strategies: workplace boundaries, flexibility at work, targeted job search, and career advice.

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I’ll never forget the two moments in my life when flexibility at work wasn’t just a “nice to have”—it was essential.

The first was when my dad passed away unexpectedly in Brazil. I needed to fly out and be with my family for a week. The second was when I had to face a cancer diagnosis. Navigating through surgery, treatments, and recovery made it impossible to keep a regular work schedule. I needed to prioritize my health and appointments over everything else.

In both cases, I was fortunate to have a workplace that understood my situation and offered me the flexibility I needed.

But, it wasn’t always that way.

Why Flexibility at the Workplace Matters

For much of my career, I worked in traditional office settings where flexibility wasn’t an option. I still remember the stress of being allowed only a two-hour window to attend doctor’s appointments, knowing I would have to clock out and count the time as half a day if I didn’t make it back. Scheduling appointments outside of work hours or during lunch breaks became the norm.

That constant pressure to fit personal needs into a rigid schedule takes a toll on your well-being. Now, after working four years remotely with greater autonomy over my time, flexibility has become non-negotiable for me. It’s not just a perk—it's a necessity.

Flexibility Fosters Well-being and Productivity

Flexibility in the workplace does more than make life easier; it nurtures both personal well-being and professional success. When you have the freedom to manage your time, you feel more empowered and less stressed, which leads to better performance. You’re not constantly worrying about how to balance appointments, family, or personal time with work responsibilities.

Employees who have flexible working arrangements are more productive, more engaged, and less likely to burn out. When companies offer flexibility, they’re not just giving employees time—they’re fostering loyalty, reducing turnover, and creating an environment that allows people to thrive.

Workplace Flexibility Examples

If you're considering flexibility as a priority for your next job, or looking for ways to advocate for it in your current role, here are a few examples of what flexibility can look like in the workplace:

• Remote Work Options: Allowing employees to work from home full-time, part-time, or on specific days of the week.
• Flexible Hours: Letting employees choose when they start and finish their workday as long as they meet their required hours.
• Compressed Workweeks: Offering the option to work longer hours in fewer days (e.g., four 10-hour days instead of five 8-hour days).
• Job Sharing: Splitting the responsibilities of one full-time job between two part-time employees.
• Unlimited Paid Time Off (PTO): Some companies offer an unlimited PTO policy, which allows employees to take time off when needed, trusting them to balance work and personal time responsibly.
• Part-Time or Reduced Hours: Allowing employees to reduce their hours temporarily or permanently to accommodate personal needs.
• Paid Family Leave: Offering extended leave for those who need time to care for a new child or an ailing family member.

What to Do If You Want to Find a Flexible Workplace

If flexibility at the workplace is important to you, it’s crucial to know how to find companies that offer it and how to advocate for it during your job search.

1. Research the Company Culture

Before applying to a company, research its culture. Many companies proudly display their commitment to flexibility on their websites or during interviews. Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and company career pages can provide valuable insights.

2. Ask the Right Questions in the Interview

During the interview process, ask about the company’s policies on flexible working arrangements. Questions like:

• "What are the company’s policies on remote work or flexible hours?"
• "How does the company support employees balancing work and personal commitments?"
• "Can you provide examples of how flexibility has worked for other team members?"

These questions will help you determine whether the company’s culture aligns with your flexibility needs.

3. Know Your Non-Negotiables

When job searching or considering a new role, it’s essential to know what type of flexibility you need. Are you looking for remote work, flexible hours, or the ability to adjust your schedule during a personal crisis? Knowing your non-negotiables will help you stay aligned with your values when considering new opportunities.

4. Advocate for Flexibility in Your Current Role

If you’re already in a role but don’t have the flexibility you need, start by having an open conversation with your manager. Present the business case: show how flexibility can boost your productivity, reduce stress, and increase loyalty. Many companies are more open to these discussions, especially after the global shift towards remote work.

Flexibility: A Core Value for Modern Workplaces

Flexibility isn’t just a perk anymore—it’s a core value for a healthy, sustainable career whether it’s navigating personal challenges or simply striving for better work-life harmony, having control over how, where, and when you work is transformative.

If you're seeking flexibility in your career, don’t settle for less. The right workplace will support you in your quest for both professional success and personal well-being. Flexibility is the future of work, and it’s time more companies embrace it.

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