Spring is here, and employees have one thing on their minds: summer schedules. Some companies offer summer flex hours that may include half days on Fridays, longer work days during a 4-day period with a full day off during the week, etc. There are many benefits to a flexible schedule, but there are also a few downfalls to consider.

hjhipster / Beach Photos / CC BY-NC

Benefits of a flex schedule

• More time to accomplish personal tasks. Flex schedules benefit employees by allowing them to have more time to get things done.
• Rewards for employees. Flexible schedules can act as a rewards program for employees.
• Employees may take less time off. Flex hours allow employees to get an early start on the weekend without taking a full day off.
• More refreshed. Having a few extra hours may help employees feel renewed and ready to dive into the next project or task.
• An increase in productivity. Read about how one city added a flexible work schedule increasing productivity.

Negative aspects of a flex schedule

• Clients may not approve. Clients may not have a flexible schedule and may not be open to your company having one.
• Looming deadlines. Deadlines still need to be met.
• The PR world never closes. The digital world does not shut down. Emails, phone calls and comments on social media platforms still need to be answered in a timely manner.

Tips for incorporating flex hours

• Let clients know well in advance.
• Get clients input on a flexible work schedule.
• Make yourself available when needed.
• Set up a schedule for employees so they know exactly when you’ll be in the office.

Does your company offer summer flex hours?

Photo credit: hjhipster / Foter / CC BY-NC