If there’s anything the pandemic has taught us, it’s that it is important to be versatile and flexible, ready to adapt to the ever-changing workforce. Flexibility is the capacity to adjust to short-term change quickly and calmly so that one can deal with unexpected problems or tasks effectively. Andrew E. Ivang from the Department of Clinical Biology – University of Rwanda, Huye Campus, says flexibility is a skill that everyone should adopt, especially in his field of study. He says that Covid-19 taught us a huge lesson, and that is the importance of being able to adjust (flexible) to anything, because life is unpredictable. He goes on to explain that when one is versatile, resilient, and responsive to change, they adapt to unexpected demands, especially in the workplace. The medic notes that flexibility offers several advantages for both employees and employers in terms of productivity and engagement. Dr Ivang explains that when employees are flexible, it means their output will be vast. This, he says, will lead to a conducive and healthy working environment. Aminadhad Niyonshuti, an educator, says with the uncertainty of what will happen in the future, there is a need to always plan ahead for the unexpected. This, he says, is just one way of being flexible in your career; it keeps you proactive, and in a better position to face challenges that might come your way head on. Being flexible, Niyonshuti says, means always having a positive outlook. He explains that focusing on the positive will keep you resilient and focused in all situations, even in the face of hardship. “Learn new skills in case of abrupt change or shift in routine, I believe it is an opportunity to learn how to work with others in case of such changes,” he says. Diana Nawatti, a head teacher and counsellor, says flexibility means learning new skills. This is important because you will be well-equipped to deal with unexpected situations should they occur. Nawatti says it is also important to stay up-to-date with what is going on, especially in one’s area of interest, and with research to develop knowledge. Dr Ivang says it’s also important to focus on their core values. Core values help one decide what they can or can’t do. In addition to this, one should always be open-minded. This, he says, means listening to and understanding the views of other people around you.
