Giving workers something to smile about may be as easy as giving them more control over their time, a recent survey suggests.

One-third (33 per cent) of employees polled recently by staffing service OfficeTeam said greater schedule flexibility would help increase their job satisfaction.

Respondents were evenly split at 17 per cent each for more autonomy in making decisions, more variety in work projects and more collaboration with others.

Fourteen per cent said something else would be their change of choice, while two per cent didn’t know or gave no answer.

“Firms that have made staff reductions are relying heavily on remaining employees to assume expanded responsibilities,” said Liz Hughes, vice-president of OfficeTeam.

“But more work often means longer hours, which can lead to burnout.

“A flexible schedule can alleviate some of the burden and allow for greater work-life balance for staff.”

The best managers focus on retaining top performers in any economy, Hughes added.

“Turnover is costly, and employees who feel appreciated are less likely to leave when business conditions improve.”

The survey was conducted by an independent research firm and includes responses from 613 working men and women 18 years of age or older.

OfficeTeam offered these tips for companies considering flexible employee schedules:

* Focus on results, not face time. Your best workers may not be the ones who log the most hours or provide the most detailed activity reports.

* Take a personal interest. Find out what interests people outside of work so you know why employees want more flexibility.

* Pay attention to timing. Not everyone produces their best work between 9 and 5. If possible, stagger schedules to enable early risers and night owls to work when they’re most productive. As an added benefit, this will enable you to expand coverage to clients.

* Keep daily issues in mind. If permanent flex-time arrangements are not feasible, offer your workers flexibility with their daily schedules.

Full-time employees will appreciate the option to take early or late lunch hours, for instance, to address personal tasks.