Flexible Schedule or Just a Night Shift in Disguise?
So I’ve seen a lot of job listings lately that really push the “flexible schedule” perk. In my line of work, mining engineering, the hours can be all over the place depending on the site and project phase. But this got me thinking outside of shift work, what does flexible actually mean in practice?
I’m curious about other people’s experiences. When a company says your schedule is flexible, does it usually translate to you having real control over your core hours? Or does it quietly mean you’re expected to be available at all odd hours to meet deadlines, like being on call for a 3 AM meeting? I try to keep a decent routine for my streaming and dance practice, and the idea of a schedule that’s flexible for the employer, but not for me, is a bit worrying.
Has anyone found a role where the flexibility was genuinely a two-way street? How did you spot the difference during the hiring process?