Flexible Workplaces and Postpandemic Business Challenges: An Analysis of Latin American Workers by Gender, Age, and Socioeconomic Level

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated labor flexibility and the rise of innovative business models, driven by digital transformation and the need for adaptability. This shift necessitated the development of new models, policies, and guidelines to address global expansion and work–life balance, presenting organizations with novel challenges. This study investigated the work–life balance, resilience, and coping strategies of 3302 workers across five Latin American countries (Argentina, Perú, Colombia, Honduras, and México) in the context of these emerging flexible work arrangements. The findings indicate that 38.5% of workers experienced improved work–life balance with remote or hybrid work, and 49.5% reported increased productivity. However, challenges emerged, with 34.1% citing difficulties in time management, 39.7% reporting blurred work–life boundaries, and 36.9% finding it harder to take breaks. Gender differences were observed in resilience and coping mechanisms: men exhibited higher resilience, and favored cognitive restructuring and spiritual support, while women relied more on family support and acceptance of help. Notably, no significant gender differences were found in work–life balance or social support. The study suggests that flexible work modalities positively influence employee well-being. However, this flexibility necessitates a reevaluation of business and operational models, including a thorough analysis of work–life balance conditions, considering employees’ resilience and coping strategies within the specific productive and organizational context.