Reciprocity in the Workplace: Is It Entitlement or Just Give and Take?
Recently, I came across a real gem in a job description from a Swiss organization. It read:
“While the standard office hours are from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, flexibility is important, as you may occasionally need to respond to urgent queries during evenings or weekends.”
While flexibility is undoubtedly important, this example clearly illustrates a very much one-sided emphasis. Employees are expected to adapt, but what, if anything, is being offered in return? Where is the give and take?
The Problem with One-Way Flexibility
This type of language in job descriptions reveals a recurring issue in today’s workplace: the imbalance of expectations between employers and employees. Flexibility is often presented as a necessity, but only when it benefits the company. If organizations ask their teams to go above and beyond, it’s only fair to consider what the organization is giving back in return.
As Diane Freymond pointed out in a recent post, the issue isn’t that companies expect more from their employees. The real question is: what are they offering in exchange? At the heart of this debate lies the concept of reciprocity.
The Changing Relationship Between Companies and Talent
The traditional employer-employee dynamic is evolving. Every day, workplace relationships move closer to a more balanced and collaborative model. Some argue that this shift is driven by a workforce becoming more entitled. But is it really entitlement, or is it simply confidence and a willingness to ask for what’s fair?
Employees today are demanding reciprocity, and rightfully so. After all, if employers want:
- Flexibility: they should offer it.
- Loyalty: they need to nurture it.
- Overtime: they must compensate for it.
This isn’t about entitlement; it’s about fairness and mutual respect.
Building a Culture of Reciprocity
Reciprocity in the workplace isn’t just a trend. It’s essential for building sustainable and engaged teams. Here are some ways companies can embrace this approach:
- Set clear expectations: If employers require flexibility, define what that means and ensure it’s mutual. For example, offer flexible working hours or remote work options in return.
- Reward extra effort: When employees work evenings or weekends, ensure they are compensated fairly, whether through overtime pay, additional time off, or other incentives.
- Prioritize well-being: Create a culture where taking breaks and disconnecting is encouraged, not frowned upon.
- Communicate openly: Encourage two-way dialogue about expectations, needs, and boundaries to ensure alignment.
The Future of Work: Give and Take
The future of work will revolve around balance. It is crucial to build workplaces where employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to perform at their best. Reciprocity is the foundation of this future, rather than a perk or a privilege. It’s a fundamental principle of a healthy, productive workplace.
So, is the modern workforce entitled or are employees simply asking for what they deserve? Perhaps it is time we stopped labeling fairness as entitlement and started seeing it for what it is: the new standard of work.
After all, if you want to receive, you must also be prepared to give.
If you want to stretch your staffing budget without dropping any balls, reach out, and we’ll help you fill gaps in your staffing.
What we wanted to tell you is that the grass is not greener on the other side, it’s just different grass and your own experience will depend on what you value in life. For us?
We wouldn’t have it any other way.