The concepts of flexibility and autonomy are talked about in the context of work and often interchanged.
Yet, there is a difference between the two when it comes to where and when we work.
Flexibility is the ability to be easily modified and include compromise.
When workplaces have flexible hours, this means that we can start and end the day between a set of hours. For example, we can begin work anytime between 6 and 10 and end the day any time after 3.
The same goes for flexible locations. We work a set number of days in the office.
The difference with autonomy is that you have freedom from external control or influence.
This means we have independence over when and where we work.
In the work example above, that means that we could choose to work 8 hours by combining work sessions from 6-10am, 2-4pm, and 8-10pm.
We can also choose the location that best serves our schedule and work for the day.
My Perspective
There isn’t a right answer to the flexibility vs. autonomy structure.
Some employees and employers prefer one approach over the other.
However, knowing the difference and understanding which approach our company implements is important in making sure trust is established.
As more companies have hybrid work solutions, policies around when and where work is done have become even more central to how work is done.
Being intentional and using the right words to describe the situation is more important than ever.
We might have complete autonomy about how our work is done but have flexible policies around where and when we do the work.
Your Turn
Do you have flexibility or autonomy about when your work is done?
What about where you work? Is this flexible or autonomous?
Could your company be clearer on how these policies are communicated to the organization?