Lack of Flexible Work Arrangements Exposes Gap in Job Market

Job seekers are increasingly prioritizing flexible working hours, with a notable rise in demand for "core hours" arrangements. Core hours, which require employees to be present during a specific timeframe such as 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., while allowing flexibility for the rest of the workday, are becoming a key consideration. Despite this growing preference, the supply of such roles has not kept pace, highlighting a significant gap between employee expectations and employer offerings in the post-pandemic job market.

According to a study released by Flexa, a global job platform specializing in flexible workplaces, the percentage of job seekers preferring core hours rose to 14% in June from 11% in April. However, the availability of these roles declined sharply, with vacancies offering core hours dropping from 15% in April to just 8% in June. This shift underscores the evolving expectations of employees and the lagging adaptation by employers.

Molly Johnson-Jones, CEO and Co-Founder, Flexa, emphasized the growing importance of flexible working hours. ““Even a small amount of flexibility around work start and finish times can make a significant difference.” This sentiment is echoed by a 2022 survey conducted by Deluxe, which revealed that 20% of employees at small-to-midsize businesses ranked flexible scheduling as the top improvement their employer could make, even surpassing the desire for remote work options.

In Mexico, flexible work schedules, rather than perks, are vital investments in employee satisfaction. Nima Pourshasb, CEO, Minu, notes that such initiatives enhance employee quality of life and foster a positive work environment that can drive substantial business results.

Despite these benefits, many employers remain hesitant to embrace flexibility. Concerns about losing control, compliance issues, and the potential disruption of traditional office culture contribute to this reluctance. Employers fear that flexibility might impede supervision, disrupt productivity, and challenge established practices. This apprehension is further exacerbated by the complexity of overhauling existing systems, leading some organizations to revert to pre-pandemic practices, as reported by the BBC.

MBN reports that Jonathan Albanil, COO, Dicka Logistics, argues that offering flexible working options is crucial for retaining talent. “Providing flexible scheduling and promoting work-life balance are key to keeping employees engaged and satisfied,” Albanil stated, reflecting the broader trend highlighted by recent industry analyses.