Sigsoog

Everyone wants that typical 9-5 job...right? Well, maybe they don't. It is actually becoming more common for employees to work different hours. Whether that means working 7-3 or 8-4, one thing is clear: the traditional workday is on the way out. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, though! Instead of counting down the minutes to freedom, the workday is starting to focus on productivity, rather than presence.

Too often, time is wasted throughout the day. Instead of completing set goals in an efficient manner, work is spaced out that so employees appear busy until 5 o'clock hits. This is exactly why it may be time for a policy update. The workplace isn't just about clocking in hours...it is about reaching goals and maximizing productivity. Giving employees a little freedom or flexibility in their schedule may bring about positive changes in both the quality of work and their attitude.

So, should every team member work 9-5? The answer is no! Forcing employees to work the traditional workday may in fact reduce efficiency. Instead of working hard to achieve certain goals or tasks, they may instead work at a slower pace to simply get through the day. It is important to note, however, that some employees prefer and even thrive on working the standard 9-5 day. It is all a matter of preference. No two people are alike, and each person has a different way of working. Therefore, the hours that team members should work truly depends on the team members themselves. For example, there are many employees who find that they prefer an earlier (or later!) start to the day. On the other hand, some may do better with their work spread throughout an eight hour day, while others can get more accomplished in six hours. Clearly, there are a number of variables to consider.

The first variable to consider? The type of work that needs to be done. If a company needs an order placed early in the morning or documents submitted later on in the day, all team members simply cannot work 9-5. Staggering the day will ensure that all work is being done efficiently and completely. Another variable is of course, the employees themselves. This doesn't just include personal preferences or even their most productive hours of the day. It relates to the type of employees working. Are there virtual employees? Interns? Do any of the employees work from home on certain days? In these cases, workday hours will need to be more flexible.

Simply put, the standard 9-5 workday doesn't - and shouldn't - apply in all cases. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, so long as the work is still getting done. At the end of the day, the most important thing is not the amount hours that team members are working...it is the quality of work that is being completed. Whether employees work 9-5 or 7-3, the best way to measure success is by productivity, not by time. So, forget 9-5! Changing up the workday may help to create some positive changes.

Find out more about our Business and Life Coaching and whether every team member should work 9-5 by calling: 647-680-6941. Our experienced Sigsoog coaches will be able to help you find success in every aspect of your life.