Flexible work and turnover: an empirical investigation across cultures

Abstract

We explored the relationship between three bundles of flexible work arrangements (FWAs) and turnover for two of GLOBE's societal clusters, namely Anglo and Nordic. We collected data through a large-scale international survey and found significant differences in the FWA-turnover relationship between the two clusters. Specifically, as unsocial hours (overtime, shift work, weekend work) and part-time arrangements (part-time and job-sharing) increase in the Anglo cluster, so does turnover. Further, as schedule flexibility (telework, work from home and flexi-time) increases in the Nordic cluster, turnover decreases. The results raise issues about the universal applicability of FWA policies and practices among nationally and internationally operating organizations. © 2009 British Academy of Management.