Question

Companies that give employees the flexibility to (i) _____ their more (ii) ______ responsibilities in favor of more exciting projects see dramatically increased productivity compared to businesses that are more (iii) ______ in their minute-to-minute structuring of daily routine. $$\begin{array}{cc}\text { Blank (i) } & \text { Blank (ii) } & \text { Blank (iii) } \\ \begin{array}{|ll|}\hline \text { A undertake } \\ \hline \text { B eschew } \\\\\hline \text { C supplement } & \\\\\hline\end{array} & \begin{array}{|l|l|}\hline \text { D quotidian } \\\\\hline \text { E latent } \\\\\hline \text { F arresting } \\\\\hline \end{array} & \begin{array}{|l|l|}\hline \text { G disingenuous } \\\\\hline \text { H lax } \\\\\hline \text { I authoritarian } \\\\\hline \end{array}\end{array}$$

Short answer

B, D, I

Step-by-step solution

Analyze the Sentence

Understand the context of the sentence. Companies with flexible policies see increased productivity compared to those with strict structures.

Fill Blank (i)

We need a verb that means to avoid or give up in favor of something else. 'Eschew' (option B) fits well, meaning to deliberately avoid or abstain from something.

Fill Blank (ii)

Look for an adjective that refers to routine or everyday tasks. 'Quotidian' (option D) fits, meaning occurring every day or mundane.

Fill Blank (iii)

Choose an adjective describing a strict structure. 'Authoritarian' (option I) fits, meaning enforcing strict obedience at the expense of personal freedom.

Key concepts

flexible work policies

Flexible work policies are rules or guidelines that allow employees to have more control over when and where they work. These policies can include options like remote work, flexible start and end times, and compressed workweeks. When employees have the freedom to choose their work environment and schedule, they often feel more satisfied and motivated.
This increased satisfaction can lead to higher productivity. Research shows that when employees are given the flexibility to manage their own time, they tend to be more engaged and willing to put in the extra effort. Flexible work policies also help in reducing burnout by allowing employees to balance their personal and professional lives more effectively.
Here are some benefits of flexible work policies:

• Improved work-life balance
• Enhanced employee satisfaction
• Increased productivity
• Reduced absenteeism
• Broader talent pool

Employers who offer flexible work policies often see significant improvements in employee morale and a reduction in turnover rates. This makes flexible work policies a win-win for both employers and employees.

routine responsibilities

Routine responsibilities refer to the daily tasks and duties that are typically repetitive and predictable. These tasks are essential for the smooth operation of a business but can sometimes become monotonous. Examples of routine responsibilities include checking emails, attending regular meetings, and performing standard administrative tasks.
While routine responsibilities are necessary, they can sometimes lead to a decrease in employee enthusiasm and creativity. When employees are bogged down by mundane tasks, they may feel less motivated to take on new and exciting projects.
To keep employees engaged, employers can encourage them to 'eschew' or avoid some of their routine responsibilities in favor of more stimulating work. This approach not only reduces monotony but also sparks creativity and innovation. Allowing employees to tackle diverse projects can rejuvenate their interest and drive.
Strategies to manage routine responsibilities effectively include:

• Task rotation to spread out repetitive tasks
• Incorporating short breaks to avoid burnout
• Using automation tools to handle routine tasks
• Encouraging employees to pursue new projects

By managing routine responsibilities wisely, employers can ensure their employees remain engaged and productive.

workplace structure

Workplace structure refers to how tasks, responsibilities, and authority are organized within a company. This structure can be either rigid and hierarchical or flexible and flat. Traditional 'authoritarian' structures are characterized by strict rules, rigid hierarchies, and close supervision. In contrast, flexible workplace structures offer more autonomy and encourage collaboration.
A rigid, authoritarian structure may enforce strict adherence to minute-by-minute schedules and policies, which can stifle creativity and limit employee motivation. On the other hand, a flexible structure allows for a more adaptable and responsive work environment. This can boost employee morale and lead to innovative solutions.
Here are key features of flexible workplace structures:

• Empowerment of employees to make decisions
• Encouragement of teamwork and collaboration
• Open communication channels
• Less rigid hierarchies
• Focus on outcomes rather than processes

By adopting a flexible workplace structure, companies can create an environment where employees feel valued and trusted. This often results in higher productivity as employees are more likely to take initiative and go beyond their routine responsibilities.