In this compelling episode, host Thomas Felix Creighton sits down with Dr Ellen Ernst Kossek, a distinguished social scientist specialising in work-family and employment issues. Together, they delve into the dynamic realm of work-life flexibility, shedding light on the evolving relationship between professional and personal life, particularly under the influence of the pandemic’s teleworking surge.
Dr Kossek discusses the transformation of traditional work arrangements into more nuanced, intersectional models, including flex time, teleworking, and part-time work, highlighting the need for workplace cultures that foster well-being and hope.
The conversation also explores the blurring boundaries between work and home life in the digital age, emphasising the significance of effectively managing these overlaps. Dr Kossek critiques the prevailing inequalities in accessing work-life flexibility, disproportionately affecting various demographics, and advocates for inclusive, intersectional approaches to address these disparities. Looking forward, she envisions a range of employer responses to the growing demand for flexible work arrangements, from full adoption to more conservative stances.
Dr Kossel’s insights suggest that integrating work-life flexibility into talent management could lead to higher productivity and give companies a competitive edge, marking a crucial step forward in understanding and navigating the complexities of modern work-life balance.
Listen to the podcast: https://www.emeraldgrouppublishing.com/work-life-flexibility-policies-a-conversation-dr-ellen-kossek