With the first day of summer fast approaching, more than half of U.S. workers polled will find themselves with the summer off, due to unemployment. Fifty-five percent of the U.S. workforce will have flexible hours this summer as a result of job loss, according to a nationwide poll conducted by Monster.com®. Monster.com is a leading global online career and recruitment resource and flagship brand of Monster Worldwide, Inc.

"With many companies offering flexible working hours as an alternative to lay-offs, it’s not surprising that nearly one-quarter of the respondents (20 percent) report flexible working hours during the summer are a perk where they work," said Norma Gaffin, director of career content, Monster.com. "In fact, Inc.com reports on a recent study suggesting one way companies are looking to keep employees engaged amidst news of lay-offs is to grant flextime," Gaffin added.

Only five percent of poll participants indicate their flexible summer schedules are a direct result of cost-cutting initiatives within their companies. The remaining 20 percent of Monster Meter poll respondents say flexible working hours at their companies are not an option during summer months.

Will you have flexible working hours this summer?

- Yes, it’s a perk where I work: 20%

- Yes, as part of a cost-cutting measure: 5%

- No, it’s not an option at my company: 20%

- My hours are already flexible as I am out of work: 55%