Sunday, May 6, 2012

MUST University’s Career Center Advice: Goodbye, nine to five!

Advancements in technology have brought about sweeping changes in almost all facets of our lives, including our work patterns and timings. The 9-5 work concept, which is still largely prevalent the world over, is fast becoming redundant and being replaced by flexible, shorter work hours. A number of organizations are emphasizing the idea of telecommuting and encouraging people to work from home, which is beneficial to both employees and employers. While working from home, at one’s own convenience and pace sounds tempting, it still needs strict supervision to ensure that projects are completed on time.
To facilitate students and working adults loath to do a 9-5 job, MUST University’s Career Center experts have come up with the following alternatives which have proven beneficial to employees and organizations alike:

1.    Telecommuting: The rise of information technology, laptops, high speed internet, smartphones and cloud commuting means that employees no longer have to be in their offices to get the job done. In fact, by telecommuting, employees can stay connected to their workplace and work as efficiently from remote locations including the comfort of their homes. This is one of the best ways of empowering employees and creating a cost- effective workplace.

2.    Four-day work weeks: Allowing employees the option of a four-day work week is a good incentive that reduces employee burnout and increases their productivity while they are in office.

3.    Flexible timings: Whenever possible, employees must be given flexible working hours, according to their convenience. For example, a working mother might find it more convenient to work from 7 am to 3 pm, while her children are at school. Similarly, an employee pursuing higher education in the mornings may prefer working from 12 pm to 8 pm. By doing this, employees can perform all their responsibilities in the best ways.