Flexible working and skill-based inequality: cause and consequences

Organizations are increasingly investing in the development of flexible work arrangements to meet employees’ needs and desires to find a good balance between work and non-work commitments. However, empirical evidence suggests that only some employees have access to flexible working options and/or experience real benefits when using them. In addition to key demographics, such as gender and age, skills are a crucial factor explaining such divides. Hence, in this chapter, using skills as an analytical lens on successful implementation and utilization, we examine the potential benefits, as well as the unintended consequences (i.e., implementation gap, greater work intensification, perception of organizational unfairness), associated with flexible working. We conclude the chapter with some policy recommendations that could help organizations ensure a higher, more equal and effective use of flexible working for the best possible interests of both employers and employees.