What is flexitime?
Flexitime is a flexible working time model that allows employees to determine the start and end of their daily working hours themselves within a set framework. The aim is to adapt working hours to individual needs and at the same time meet operational requirements.
Structure and mode of operation
Typically, flexitime consists of two central components.
- Flexitime: The period in which employees can start or end their working hours flexibly, for example between 7:00 and 9:00 in the morning and between 15:00 and 19:00 in the evening.
- Core working hoursA defined period within the working day during which attendance is mandatory to ensure cooperation within the team and with customers.
In addition to the classic model with core working hours, there are also variants such as flexitime with functional time, in which teams are responsible for ensuring that certain operational functions are always covered without setting fixed attendance times for individuals.
Advantages of flexitime
For employees:
- Increased flexibility for a better work-life balance.
- Adaptation of working hours to personal performance phases.
- Ability to commute outside rush hours, making the journey to work easier.
For employers:
- Increasing employee satisfaction and motivation.
- Attractiveness as a modern employer in the competition for skilled workers.
- More flexible personnel planning and better adaptation to operational requirements.
Challenges and legal aspects
The introduction of flexitime requires clear regulations, particularly with regard to.
- Documentation of working hours and management of working time accounts.
- Regulations on compensation for overtime and undertime.
- Compliance with legal requirements, such as maximum daily working hours and required rest periods.
In Germany, the introduction of flexitime is subject to co-determination if a works council exists.
Conclusion
Flexitime offers numerous advantages for both employees and employers by promoting flexibility and personal responsibility. However, the successful use of this model requires clear agreements and transparent communication within the company.