Discover how effective employer backing can enhance flexible work arrangements for parents juggling their responsibilities.
Balancing work and family is no easy task, especially for parents. A recent study from La Trobe University offers valuable insights into how flexible work arrangements affect parents' well-being, shedding light on the informal strategies they use to manage both work and family life.
The study highlights that flexible options—like remote work, flexible hours, and compressed weeks—can be a lifesaver for parents juggling their family commitments. But, as the research shows, it’s not always smooth sailing. Parents often create their own informal routines, like syncing schedules with their partners or leaning on family support, to manage it all. While these strategies help, they can sometimes add extra stress.
One of the study’s key takeaways is that while flexible work reduces pressure, it doesn’t always stop burnout. Some parents feel like they’re always on, with the lines between work and home life getting a bit blurry. This can lead to feeling worn out, which is why setting boundaries within flexible arrangements is crucial.
We recently ran a LinkedIn poll at FlexCareers to see how people are feeling about their flexible work options. We asked: Do you think informal work strategies contribute to fatigue and burnout, or are current flexible options enough to support your needs? Here’s what people said:
It’s clear from the poll results that while flexibility is appreciated, it’s not a cure-all. A large chunk of respondents (40%) said they experience a mix of both benefits and challenges. This lines up with the La Trobe study, which stresses that flexibility works best when it’s backed by genuine support from employers.
So, how can employers help? By creating a culture that truly embraces flexibility, offering more than just the option to work from home or tweak hours. It’s about understanding the needs of working parents and helping them set boundaries that allow them to thrive at work and at home.
If you're an employer looking to better support your team, FlexCareers can help. Reach out today to explore flexible work strategies that make a real difference!
For more insights, you can read the full La Trobe University study here.
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