The flexible work schedule – something so many of us strive to achieve, yet only a few enjoy. For years, the flexible employee was one who was able to work from home with access to the technology available to support the telecommuter. That technology was limited and the separation between the employee and the corporate environment was obvious. It was a time before the availability of the softswitch that created a seamless experience.
The story has changed in the last decade, however, as the telecommuter is no longer the exception in the corporate environment. Streamlined communications and advanced capabilities enable the self-motivated to recreate the in-house experience regardless of location. The executive can work from a beach house on the other side of the world, his mobile phone ringing from his desk number and video conferencing readily available when the need arises.
Such a situation suggests the professional couldn’t possibly be productive if the work location is on the beach. For the CEO, this may not matter; for the sales manager, however, there are a certain number of activities that must take place, communications that must be completed and collaboration that must take precedence if the company hopes to achieve its goals. If these activities can take place anywhere in the world, the professional is likely to be more productive.
Image via Shutterstock
In fact, studies have repeatedly shown productivity improvements in flexible working situations. These individuals can complete calls, finish tasks and open documents while on the go. Time and location are no longer restrictions for accomplishing specific goals. Dead time is all but eliminated as the professional is no longer restricted by traditional working hours. The long commute is cut out and time on the clock is actually time well spent.
The flexible approach to work is creating an environment that appeals to the next generation, one that shuns traditional boundaries that limited creativity and a healthy work/life balance. Employees want to know that when they commit to a job that it won’t become their life, but will instead allow them to live their life. The flexible work environment supports this assumption, enabled by technology like the softswitch.
The softswitch and supporting VoIP solutions help to replace outdated systems that limit flexibility and agility in dynamic markets. Businesses can achieve the desired results when employees are enabled with the technology to create the desired environment. Whether that environment is in the office or at home, the flexibility to choose is the key to long-term success.
Edited by Alisen Downey