Should workplace flexibility for family commitments compromise workload fairness?
HR experts argue that workplace flexibility policies should not unfairly burden employees without children with extra duties. Managers are encouraged to distribute undesirable tasks equitably to prevent resentment and burnout among all staff members.
Why it matters
This addresses modern workplace equity challenges as companies attempt to balance family-friendly policies with operational fairness.
Managers may assume that employees without children can always stay late, travel at short notice or work during holidays.
Listen In this series, business correspondent Timothy Goh offers practical answers to candid questions on navigating workplace challenges and getting ahead in your career. Get more tips by signing up to The Straits Times’ Headstart newsletter .
Managers may assume that employees without children can always stay late, travel at short notice or work during holidays, said Don Leow, human resource director at the National Institute of Education.
But bosses should not assume that employees without children have fewer responsibilities outside work.
Employees who are single or do not have children may also have family commitments, including caring for ageing parents, or other personal priorities such as studying or managing their health.
“Being family friendly should not mean treating one form of family responsibility as more important than another,” he said.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in