Job Flexibility Quiz Scoring Guide

Job Flexibility Quiz Scoring Guide

by Randall S. Hansen, Ph.D.

Thanks again for participating in our Job Flexibility Quiz.

Answers:

Yes. One of the biggest reasons workers state for asking for job flexibility is a perceived lack of balance between work and family demands and a sense that work obligations are invading into time that could be spent with family.
Yes. The two largest groups of workers who seek job flexibility are new parents with small children and baby boomers dealing with eldercare issues. How people deal with these issues are personal and family choices, but the decisions you make often have an impact on work.
No. If you are planning any type of major financial obligations in the next few years, some types of job flexibility -- that cut your hours and salary -- will not be right for you.
No. While many employers support various types of job flexibility programs, do not equate support with continuing on a fast-track toward upper management or rapid promotions.
Yes. If you're a control freak (or maybe even a Type A personality), job flexibility may not be for you. Whether it's a reduction in your hours, job-sharing, or some other flexible job option, you should expect (and in most cases want to) give up some of the day-to-day responsibilities of your current position.
Yes. Perhaps the most important question -- and perhaps one of the only questions that truly matters. All studies show you simply MUST have a partner who supports your choice -- and the implications that choice has on the family -- if the job flexibility (and family itself) is to have any chance of success.
Yes. It's important to understand the short-term and long-term financial implications of your choice of flexible scheduling. Financial planning is critical to job flexibility.
Yes. Many employees who have been on some sort of flexible scheduling report being passed over for promotions and raises, and so you must be prepared to make some sacrifices for your increased flexibility.
Yes. You need to have both a boss and a company corporate culture that values employees -- and puts their needs as a priority. While an employer does not need to have an existing policy on job flexibility, it certainly helps in making your proposal to your boss/supervisor.
No. The work ethic remains strong in our culture, and if changing to a reduced schedule is will impact your sense of job satisfaction and self-worth, then the increased flexibility may not be worth it.

Scoring:
Give yourself 10 points for every answer that matches the answers above. If you scored...

90 or above: You are an excellent candidate for job flexibility
60-80: You have some unresolved issues that need to be addressed before continuing with job flexibility
Under 60: At this time, it appears job flexibility is not a good choice for you.

Questions about some of the terminology used in this quiz? Get more information (definitions and links) on key college, career, and job-search terms by going to our Job-Seeker's Glossary of Job-Hunting Terms.

QuintCareers.com Founder Dr. Randall Hansen

Dr. Randall S. Hansen is founder of Quintessential Careers, one of the oldest and most comprehensive career development sites on the Web, as well CEO of EmpoweringSites.com. He is also founder of MyCollegeSuccessStory.com and EnhanceMyVocabulary.com. He is publisher of Quintessential Careers Press, including the Quintessential Careers electronic newsletter, QuintZine. Dr. Hansen is also a published author, with several books, chapters in books, and hundreds of articles. He's often quoted in the media and conducts empowering workshops around the country. Finally, Dr. Hansen is also an educator, having taught at the college level for more than 15 years. Visit his personal Website or reach him by email at randall(at)quintcareers.com.

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Job Flexibility Quiz Scoring Guide

Enhance your career! Take advantage of all of our expert free career development advice, tools, and more in our Career Resources Toolkit for Job-Seekers.