Working “In The Zone”
Think for a moment about your ideal work scenario. Look beyond the substance of the work, itself. Instead, focus on structure, and flow, and surroundings. Think about the “how” and the “when” and the “where” that make it possible to perform well.
What does it feel like to operate in your most productive way? And how often do you actually achieve that level of focus and energy? Is something standing between you and your vision? If so, how could you or your employer close the gap?
Of course, each of us has a unique work/life narrative. And there are countless ways to create an effective fit between professional responsibilities and personal pursuits. But anything is possible, as long as we’re empowered to make choices that work for us and for those who need our talent.
Straight Ahead: No Boundaries
Did I just hear a chuckle from the cynical side of the house? Granted, I see blue sky in the forecast. But this week’s #TChat forums indicate that flexible options aren’t just an isolated phenomenon or a passing fancy. Instead, soon we should expect many more workers to find flexibility within reach. Why? Consider these points:
1) The concept of work, itself, is being radically redefined — as Jason Fried, founder of the productivity application company, 37Signals , explained in this compelling TED Talk:
VIDEO
2) Employers are waking up and recognizing the business value of flexible work options . And, as many #TChat participants suggested, ROI can be measured in multiple ways. For example:
https://twitter.com/VizwerxGroup/status/370330241840861184
(For more thought-provoking tweets, see the #TChat highlights slideshow at the end of this post.)
3) Our expert guests are evidence that flexible options are gaining credibility and momentum. Both are leading the way in today’s work/life fit movement. They shared real-world perspectives about why these initiatives are gaining traction, along with tips to “make it work.”
• Lisa Horn , Co-Leader of SHRM’s Workplace Flexibility Initiative and a SHRM Senior Government Relations Advisor;Susan Lovegren , SVP of HR at Plantronics, a leading-edge technology company that offers “Smarter Working” choices.
(Hear details in the #TChat Radio show listed in the week’s resource list, below.)
4) The backlash has begun. You know a business practice is becoming legitimate when nay-sayers appear at the gates. Ironically, just this week HR Executive Online reported on “next wave” research: “Non-Remote Workers Jealous of Telecommuters.” Why leave anyone behind? As our #TChat Radio guests explained, even when telecommuting isn’t practical, flexibility can come in other forms.
5) Key takeaway — change is a two-way street. Whatever is ahead in the realm of flexible work, it’s clear that change is needed on both sides of the employment contract. As this nested tweet suggests:
Thanks to everyone in the TalentCulture community who contributed opinions and ideas at this week’s #TChat events! We invite you to review highlights in the slideshow below, along with other related resources — and we look forward to expanding this conversation, as work/life blend issues continue to shape today’s workplace!
#TChat Week-In-Review: The Flexible World Of Work
SUN 8/18:
Forbes.com Post: To kickstart the conversation, TalentCulture CEO, Meghan M. Biro challenged business leaders to recognize the value of flexible work options. Read: “5 Reasons Why Workplace Flexibility Is a Smart Business Strategy.”
MON 8/19:
#TChat Preview: Our Community Manager, Tim McDonald , expanded on the week’s topic and events in his preview post: “Reworking The 9-to-5 Office Job.”
TUE 8/20:
Related Post: TalentCulture blog contributor, Heather Huhman , offered a snapshot of today’s flexible workforce trends with an infographic post: “5 Reasons To Hire Flexible Talent.”
WED 8/21:
Listen now to the #TChat Radio show #TChat Radio: Meghan M. Biro and Kevin W. Grossman to discuss key issues and opportunities surrounding flexible work options, and how the concept translates into organizational life at Plantronics. Listen now to the radio show recording.
#TChat Twitter: #TChat Twitter stream for an open discussion about work/life fit from many points of view. To see highlights, check out the Storify slideshow below:
#TChat Highlights: Workplace Flexibility As A Business Strategy
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Closing Notes & What’s Ahead
GRATITUDE: Thanks again to Lisa Horn and Susan Lovegren for generously sharing insights about flexibility initiatives and work/life blend issues. You’ve opened our eyes to new aspects of this critical business trend.
NOTE TO BLOGGERS: Did this week’s events prompt you to write about flexible work arrangements or work/life fit issues? We’d love to share your thoughts. Post a link on Twitter (include #TChat or @TalentCulture ), or insert a comment below, and we’ll pass it along.
WHAT’S AHEAD: Next week, our “summer restart” series concludes, as author Bob Burg joins us to look at entrepreneurial endeavors within corporate environments . So plan to join us, and check for details this weekend on TalentCulture social channels .
In the meantime, the World of Work conversation continues everyday. So join us on the #TChat Twitter stream, on our LinkedIn discussion group. or on other social channels. And feel free to explore our redesigned website. The lights are always on here at TalentCulture, and your ideas and opinions are always welcome.
See you on the stream!
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