Is flexible working a trap?

I’m hearing lots about flexibility right now. Consensus: Any credible employer must offer genuine flexibility. Not just for parents and carers, for anyone. That requires real trust in employees. I agree, thoroughly. But the access I get inside many employers - direct to existing and target employees - tells me there’s a risk. Flexibility can also be a trap. Not by unscrupulous employers - there’s not many of them - but from uncaring employers, of which there are many more. Those employers that haven’t thought through all the human consequences. The trap that's set is an ability to be flexible becomes a requirement to be available. To be always on, to be dragged up to the level of the most “committed”, to not be able to schedule down-time. As one young person in their first job put it: “Yeah, flexible for who?” We must remember that, for many, the best work-life balance is still a 9-5, possibly from one work location. For those that don’t choose that, they need the same levels of control. Employees need to trust their employer will care for them. hashtag#employeeengagement hashtag#balance