Flexible Work Overview

For Leaders

Leaders may use the following framework to develop a flexible work philosophy that supports the University’s mission and aligns with the unique offerings of the areas under their supervision. Units can use this framework to provide teams and individuals with guidance on the type of flexible work they may be eligible to request. Below is the decision cascade for developing this guidance:

• University Commitment to Mission: Wake Forest is a primarily residential university, with a commitment to service and engagement. Our dedication to mission prioritizes personal interaction between students, faculty, and staff.
• Cabinet/Dean Level Divisional Work Philosophy: Each cabinet and dean-level division supports the mission of the University in unique ways. Divisions should identify their stakeholders, examine their commitments to service and engagement, and articulate best work practices to create a philosophy of work that supports our shared commitment to mission.
• Unit Level Models: Given the division’s work philosophy, each unit within it can create a model that outlines opportunities, parameters, and boundaries for flexible work options that support holistic team needs. Supervisors should engage in regular conversations with employees and teams about performance and engagement.

For Individuals

Individuals may request a flexible work arrangement within their department model that continues to support the University’s mission and divisional framework. A successful flexible work arrangement would be underpinned by the following outcomes. 

• Leverages the best of virtual and in-person engagement
• Enhanced, consistent, and effective operational support and customer service  
• Cost-savings or cost neutrality 

Requests for a flexible work arrangement require the supervisor’s approval based on the department’s and division’s operational needs and support of the University’s mission. Human Resources is available to assist departments in developing and assessing proposals if needed. Current employees and new hires who plan to work outside of North Carolina must receive approval from WFU Payroll before engaging in out-of-state work.

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Flexible Location Considerations

A flexible location allows colleagues to perform work remotely for part or all of the work week on a consistent basis. Colleagues may perform their work from home or another location that is conducive to productivity. Employees may, on occasion, be required to come into the office for an in-person meeting on days they are scheduled to work remotely. Current employees and new hires who plan to work outside of North Carolina must receive approval from WFU Payroll before engaging in out-of-state work.

The employee is required to have the appropriate physical environment, equipment and supplies, and technology to adequately support the flexible location option.

• Physical Environment

  Staff must have a location free from hazards where they can consistently and productively perform their work..

• Equipment and Supplies

  The University will not provide staff with any additional office equipment such as desks, chairs, lamps, etc. for a remote office location. Staff are also responsible for the purchase of any needed duplicate computer peripherals (desk, chair, monitor, keyboard, camera, etc.) for a remote office space and reliable internet/telephone connectivity.

• Technology

  Staff may use their current university technology such as computers, chargers, monitors, docking stations, etc. in their remote working environment if desired. The university will not, however, subsidize the purchase of additional technology, nor purchase replacement equipment beyond the normal scheduled laptop rotation.

  View more technology resources »
• Commuting Expenses

  Staff are responsible for any expenses incurred during any commute to and from campus.

Note: Flexible location arrangements must comply with federal, state, and municipal laws including the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA).

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Flexible Schedule Considerations

A flexible schedule may allow colleagues flexibility in the times during which their work is performed. This may include flexibility in arrival and departure times, with core hours coinciding with times when all colleagues are on-site, or a condensed work schedule. A condensed schedule allows an employee to work their typical 5-day workweek in 4 days or 2 workweeks in 9 days.

Coordinating flexible schedules for the entire team can offer improved work area coverage and extended service hours. Leaders may want to explore this option for the entire team and identify core hours during which all team members are present for meetings and other synchronous in-person collaboration needs.

Note: Non-exempt staff may be eligible for overtime pay if they work more than 40 hours in a workweek. Supervisors must carefully monitor the implementation of 2 workweek / 9 day non-exempt schedules to ensure unnecessary overtime is avoided.

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Advantages and Challenges of Flexible Work

Prior to requesting a flexible work arrangement, colleagues should consider the following advantages and challenges of these options.

• Advantages
  • Reduces or limits commute time by limiting the number of days an individual needs to commute or allows them to commute at more convenient times.
  • Potential for more productivity due to fewer interruptions either working remotely or during times when fewer team members are in the office.
  • Flexible work options can increase attendance and reduce tardiness.
  • Flexible schedules can offer improved work area coverage and extended service hours.
• Challenges
  • Fewer opportunities for face-to-face communication with team members.
  • Requires a high level of trust and clear alignment of expectations.
  • Technology support may not be available for colleagues during non-working hours or to those working remotely.
  • Feelings of inequity amongst team members with varying schedules.
  • Coordinating team schedules to allow for effective collaboration.
  • Longer work days and remote work can be exhausting and isolating.