FLEXIBLE WORK ARRANGEMENT AND EMPLOYEE JOB SATISFACTION: EVIDENCE FROM SELECTED ENTREPRENEURIAL FIRMS IN LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA

This study examined the effect of flexible work arrangements (FWAs) on employee job satisfaction among selected entrepreneurial firms in Lagos State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was adopted. Using Yamane's (1967) formula, 154 questionnaires were administered to employees drawn from selected entrepreneurial SMEs through stratified random sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies, means, standard deviations), Cronbach's alpha for reliability, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis. Four dimensions of FWAs (flextime, remote/telework, compressed work schedule, and job sharing) were examined against employee job satisfaction indicators (autonomy, workload satisfaction, work-life balance, and overall satisfaction). The study's results indicate that all four FWA dimensions have statistically significant positive effects on employee job satisfaction. Flextime significantly predicted employee commitment (β = 0.561, p < 0.001); remote/shift flexibility significantly predicted productivity (β = 0.510, p < 0.001); compressed schedules significantly improved work-life balance and reduced job stress (β = 0.571, p < 0.001); and job sharing significantly enhanced productivity-related satisfaction (β = 0.573, p < 0.001). The full model explained 32.2% of variance in job satisfaction (F(4,149) = 17.701, p < 0.001). This study provides empirical evidence on FWAs within the under-researched context of Nigerian entrepreneurial SMEs, applying multiple motivational theories and contributing to the growing literature on work flexibility in sub-Saharan Africa, as well as providing evidence for human resource managers, policy makers, and entrepreneurs to integrate FWAs into organisational strategy. With the outcome of this study, entrepreneurial firms in Lagos State should formalise FWA policies to attract and retain talent, reduce absenteeism, and improve employee morale.