May 2, 2008 — There's a provocative story (expertly compiled and written by our own editor Bob King) in today's Newsline about the total rewards implications of what's now being predicted as $7 per gallon gasoline by 2012. That's right: $7 per gallon. When I was in England in February, I did some rough math — converting pounds per liter — and figured that "petrol" — as they say — was selling over there for about $6 (USD) per gallon.
The Newsline articles on gas prices (there's more than one) also explore some issues around gasoline prices and telework, flexible scheduling, as well as other workplace issues. In part, it discusses the successful flexible work schedule program in Houston ("Flex in the City") and provides some tips on establishing telework and flexible scheduling programs.
The articles might serve as a shocker for some employers. Jennifer M. Verive, the CEO of White Rabbit Virtual Inc., hits the nail on the head in the Newsline piece when she says, "Currently, a growing number of employers are worried about this, as they know employees are factoring it into their cost of living and net wages. In regions with high home prices where commutes are longer, attracting new employees is now even more difficult. Getting a job closer to home is no longer about time convenience; it's a $60 fill-up that takes money away from other personal and family needs."
I will admit that I almost didn't read Ryan's May 2 post because the first paragraph included the words "math" and "converting pounds per liter." As with most journalists, I don't do math. Nonetheless, the gas prices have become a daily discussion even in my house, and part of this discussion continually revolves around the question, "Can I be as effective in my job working remotely, as I am in the office." This issue has some far reaching implications. For example, some employees are the first to admit they are not disciplined enough to work remotely. Others, such as myself, thoroughly enjoy the silence and are able to get twice as much work done in half the time. But it's important to realize there are different "breaking" points for every employee; Teleworking, as the article reiterates, is certainly not a "one size fits all" solution. For example, even though I'm effective teleworking one day a week, would I still be as effective if I teleworked five days a week? Perhaps not. I have discovered that I learn something important every single day from my co-workers in various departments and divisions. If I were not able to hear those conversations or engage in those hallway discussions, how would I learn these jewels of information that often times help me clarify my focus and mission? I would have to seek them out through blogs, intranet, phone calls, etc. And the fact is, when I'm facing a tight deadline, chances are slim that I'll take the time to pick up the phone simply to share information. Food for thought ...
Mon May 5, 2008 8:44 AM
Andrea Ozias (Staff)
I'll tell you what happens when gas hits $7. http://www.worldatwork.org/waw/adimComment?id=26130
Ann M Bares Managing Partner Member Since: 11/21/1983 Comments: 16
Great post, Ryan - and great article, Bob. I have posted on my blog with a link back to you - http://compforce.typepad.com/compensation_force/2008/05/rising-gas-pric.html
Print this Page