Work of tomorrow

The government wants to modernize the structures of the working world. The measures under discussion are necessary. But, they should take into account the reality of the business in a differentiated way.

Flexibility has helped to create more jobs in Germany. The success factors for flexibility are: good industrial relations, personal responsibility and clear expectations in the workplace. The unfavorable effects: poor working climate and quality, long working hours, night shift, permanent availability, and time-consuming commuting. The Federal Government  would therefore like to flank the transformation of the world of work with several initiatives.

These include:

• the Work of Tomorrow Act
• the containment of the unfounded time limit
• a framework for mobile working
• as well as the amendment of the Working Hours Act

The "work of tomorrow" package is intended to support the economy and to improve the qualification of employees. It is important to align the measures closely to the needs of the company. In order not to overload  the unemployment insurance, the legislator needs to find a solution to the financing question with a special sense of proportion. In addition, mobile working and home office arrangements are to be promoted. The government wants to create experimental spaces for companies to offer more self-determined work.

Implement flexibility well: Politics is challenged

As far as time limits are concerned, they account for only six percent of the industry of the employment relationships.

• This six percent must be granted by the legislator to companies as a flexibility instrument in economically difficult times.
• The chemical industry social partners use the option of agreeing a longer fixed-term contract in a responsible manner. This opportunity should be retained.
• Instead of further legal regulations, industry solutions must be possible through the collective bargaining parties. For example, a departure from the eleven-hour minimum rest period would be welcome.
• Working from home, mobile working and the use of mobile devices must be possible without violating labor law.

Rigid regulations do not meet the increased requirements for the compatibility of job and private life.

Flexible working at LANXESS

Trust, communication and result orientation determine the corporate culture.

With the Xwork program, LANXESS offers flexibility in terms of working hours and place of work and can thus better meet the needs of employees and customers.

Part-time work is available at LANXESS for all employees, including shift and production workers and managers.

Career opportunities should be independent of the working hours model.