The traditional 9-5 work model has changed. In a post-COVID society, we’re eschewing tradition in favour of what works for us, our personalities, our bodies, our lives. In the events industry – where work hours often extend beyond conventional office times – the classic 9-5 model has never fitted anyway.
So, in the latest episode of our Eventful Encounters podcast, our hosts, Leanne Bladen, Director of Sales and Marketing, and Tanita Gill, Marketing Manager at Eastside Rooms spoke to Lorna Reeves from Office Christmas Party about a new concept called “True Flex” – a flexible work model that’s reshaping how businesses think about productivity, employee satisfaction, and retention.
(Lorna Reeves is a multi-award-winning business owner. After 15 years as a CSI, Lorna made the leap to pursue her passion for creating experiential, game changing business events. In her campaign for #NoMoreBoringConferences, she works to create 4D experiences to maximise engagement and immersion for attendees. She now works for Office Christmas Party, creating next-level experiences, while continuing to advocate for women in the events industry as a front runner for practical, flexible working.)
What is True Flex?
True Flex is more than just working from home; it’s about giving employees the freedom to work when they are most productive and according to their personal schedules. Whether someone’s an early bird catching the worm at 5am or a night owl whose creativity bursts into life at 9pm, True Flex allows individuals to tailor their workday around their lives, maximising both their potential and work-life balance.
For the events industry, which operates on a 24/7 schedule, True Flex is a natural fit. Often, events require teams to work at odd hours, so allowing employees to manage their time based on their energy levels and commitments can reduce burnout and increase job satisfaction.
Why True Flex is the Future
Reeves highlights how True Flex helps retain top talent and is particularly helpful for women in that it accommodates significant life changes like parenting or menopause (listen to our last podcast to learn more about the impact of the menopause on women in the event sector), where work-life needs shift. When companies are rigid in their schedules, Reeves explains, they risk losing invaluable employees simply because their work hours no longer align with their personal circumstances.
Flexible work options ensure that businesses can keep these high-performing employees engaged and productive. And when companies adapt and offer such flexibility, they not only improve employee well-being but see a significant return on their investment in talent development and training.
What are the Challenges of True Flex?
As with all new concepts, True Flex isn’t without challenges. Reeves stresses that it requires clear communication, strong leadership, and proper training for managers. Companies need to set clear objectives for employees and trust them to meet those goals without micromanaging. Leaders must also create a culture of open communication, where team members feel comfortable sharing their availability and setting boundaries.
A key aspect of implementing True Flex is ensuring that teams can support one another. Employees need to respect each other’s schedules and take collective responsibility for the team’s overall success. True Flex thrives in environments where collaboration and trust are paramount.
The Importance of Boundaries
In an always-on industry like events, setting boundaries is critical. Reeves and our hosts discuss how True Flex enables employees to take breaks when needed and respect their colleagues’ time off. This prevents burnout and fosters a healthier work environment.
By respecting personal boundaries, employees return to work refreshed and ready to perform at their best. Leaders who model this behaviour – like avoiding unnecessary emails during off-hours – help create a culture where work-life balance is truly valued.
Reeves shares how True Flex has positively impacted her own business. By offering flexibility and trusting her employees to manage their time, she has seen high levels of productivity and retention. In six years, her company hasn’t lost a single employee – a testament to the success of this model.
As Reeves states, incorporating True Flex allows companies to retain top talent, reduce turnover, and build a positive, inclusive workplace culture where employees feel valued and supported.
How to Start the True Flex Conversation
For employees interested in True Flex, Reeves recommends approaching their employer with a clear and specific request. Instead of simply asking for flexibility, employees should outline what they need – whether it’s a shift in start times or adjusted work hours – and how it would benefit both them and the business. A trial period can help both parties see if the arrangement works before committing long-term.
Ultimately, True Flex is about adapting to modern work needs and understanding that flexibility benefits not just the employee but the entire organisation. It’s clear that it’s not just a passing trend but a powerful tool for morale-boosting, employee satisfaction and therefore productivity.
To learn more about True Flex and how it’s transforming the workplace, particularly in the events world, tune in to the full episode of Eventful Encounters here ↳
