In recent years, the dynamics in the business world have changed and management techniques have

become more flexible, more in tune with the needs of employees. In becoming more flexible, managers create a win-win situation as employees show more productivity and loyalty.

• The first step is to decide how flex-ible you and your company can be. Some flexible management skills can be used in any company, no matter how large. Flexible managers understand each employee’s situations, strengths and skills through open line of communication.

• Flexible managers will go as far as to understand an employee’s family responsibilities. For example, if an employee has circumstances at home that are a distraction from their responsibilities at work, managers can work with the employee to create a more flexible work schedule or responsibilities.

• Once this relationship is established, managers can work with the employee by giving them a goal, then letting the employee offer suggestions and methods to achieve it. Some freedom to the employee can translate into enthusiasm and more productivity.

• However, managers should still keep tabs on their employee by doing daily or weekly progress reports. By  this, managers can anticipate some troubles or questions an employee may have, perhaps providing answers and tools before they are requested.

• In addition to goal-setting, action plans and progress reports, managers can encourage teamwork within their staff. To adapt to the needs of the employees and allow for more flexibility, consider cross-training employees.

• While flexibility in management can be an asset, it is important to be wary of situations where people may take advantage of such adaptability. Any abuse of a manager’s flexibility must be addressed immediately.

Managers should never be adaptable at a company’s expense.