Though the pandemic had a significant impact on the employment landscape and structure of the workplace, these changes began prior to 2020. With more companies adapting to less traditional work environments, and more remote and hybrid positions, the professional landscape was varied. Work-life balance has become more of a focus for many and thus, where and how we works has shifted. Workplace flexibility is much more of an implemented practice in many industries. 

The Muse published an article outlining pros, cons, and tips for workplace flexibility. They also share some data on the prevalence and preference for such work arrangements. Tim Glowa, CEO and Founder of HRbrain shares that "research indicates that nearly 70% of employees prefer flexible working arrangements, highlighting the importance of adapting to these expectations" and "companies that embrace this change will not only attract top talent but also foster a more engaged and satisfied workforce."

What exactly is workplace flexibility? Essentially, it provides an employee with the opportunity to have more control over their schedule and environment to optimize their productivity. This can be unique to each individuals as work styles and needs are different, as are life circumstances, but the underlying principle is the ability to customize and tailor a roles schedule and environment to suit personal needs and lifestyles while still meeting the responsibilities associated with the role. 

This is relevant to those with a cancer diagnosis who may need certain flexibilities in order to continue, or return, to work. The following are a few cited examples of flexibilities that can be particularly helpful to those managing side effects or symptoms.

1. Flexible schedules: This can be less traditional working hours, say 7-3 instead of 9-5 if afternoon fatigue creates a challenge, alternatively working 11-7 if the opposite is true for you. This can also mean part-time employment, so there is the ability to earn an income and work while also managing other aspects like treatment or recovery.
2. Flexible location: Working either remotely full time, or setting up a hybrid arrangement in which you spend a few days in the office. This can help in a myriad of ways including saving energy with no commute, keeping your immune system safe from in-office germs, and being able to create a space that is most comfortable given any challenges you may be experiencing.
3. Flexible roles and responsibilities: Job sharing is cited as a possibility in which two employees share the responsibilities of one full-time role. This can help with balancing other areas needing attention. Having nonessential responsibilities of a job transferred to another employee can be another way to alleviate some of the challenges at work. For instance, if you're responsible for something involving lifting 20lbs but it isn't a core part of the role, perhaps it can be covered by a coworker.

The above are just a few examples, but there are many different ways that a job can be flexible. Particularly now that many employees and job seekers have gained a bit more voice and control in their work structures and conditions, it can be worth exploring what flexibilities already exist, and which may need to be requested. A common flexible option among those with a cancer diagnosis is remote work. Many companies have implemented policies around remote work so it is not a completely left field request as it was once considered to be. There are of course pros and cons to remote work, so if you're interested in learning more, and setting yourself up for success as a remote worker, check out the recording of our webinar on Balancing Remote Work & Cancer. Additional articles on best practices for remote work can be found in the Working Remotely section of our website. 

If your employer, or potential employer, does not have specific policies around flexible work, it is worth exploring requesting Reasonable Accommodations through the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) as a more formalized setup. We understand these types of conversations can be stressful and often nerve-wracking, so please join us for our upcoming webinar on September 11th for part 2 of our webinars on Communicating Effectively, so you feel better prepared to approach these topics with your employer.

Cancer and Careers is always here to answer any questions, concerns, or requests for more resources! Feel free to reach out at any time to cancerandcareers@cew.org.