Flexitime Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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flexitime

[ˈflɛksɪtaɪm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

work schedule

Flexitime is a flexible working arrangement that allows employees to choose their working hours within agreed limits. It empowers workers to manage their time more effectively and accommodate personal commitments. This adjustment can lead to increased job satisfaction and productivity. Flexitime is commonly found in modern workplaces, promoting a better work-life balance.

Synonyms

adjustable schedule, flexible hours, flexible work.

Examples of usage

  • I love having flexitime; it lets me adjust my day to pick up my kids from school.
  • Many companies now offer flexitime to attract talented employees.
  • With flexitime, I can start work earlier and finish in the afternoon.
  • Flexitime arrangements can help accommodate different lifestyles and preferences.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Workplace Trends

  • Flexitime has gained popularity in the tech industry as companies seek innovative ways to attract talent.
  • Research suggests that employees with flexible schedules report higher job satisfaction and better work-life balance.

Cultural Impact

  • Countries like Scandinavia lead in implementing flexitime policies, often resulting in higher overall productivity.
  • Flexitime reflects changing work cultures worldwide, promoting a focus on results rather than strict working hours.

Psychology

  • Flexibility in work hours can reduce stress, allowing workers to manage personal commitments alongside professional duties.
  • Studies indicate that when employees have control over their schedules, their motivation and engagement levels increase significantly.

Legislation

  • In some countries, part-time workers are legally entitled to flexible working arrangements to accommodate their needs.
  • The UK's Flexible Working Regulations, introduced in 2014, allow employees to request flexible hours after 26 weeks of service.

Origin of 'flexitime'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'flexitime' emerged in the 1960s, combining 'flexible' and 'time' to describe adaptable working hours.
  • It was first officially adopted in the 1970s, mostly in corporate cultures aiming to improve employee satisfaction and productivity.

The term 'flexitime' emerged in the late 20th century, primarily in the context of workplace practices that sought to enhance employee flexibility. As businesses began to recognize the importance of work-life balance, especially during the 1970s and 1980s, various working arrangements were introduced. The concept of flexitime was influenced by changes in societal norms, including the increasing demand for dual-income households and the pursuit of more adaptable work schedules. This shift also coincided with the advent of new technologies, which allowed for remote work and further contributed to the popularity of flexible working arrangements. The word itself is a portmanteau that combines the words 'flexible' and 'time', reflecting its essence as a system that allows workers to navigate their responsibilities in a less conventional way. Today, flexitime is a standard feature in many industries, representing a significant change in how companies approach employee engagement and productivity.