The truth behind attaining work/life balance

So is work/life balance really attainable?

We asked the question in an online survey and 42.53 percent of Singaporeans think it is but say a flexible employer is key. A further 36.02 percent said work/life balance is attainable, but that it is up to them to make it work. 21.46 percent feel work/life balance is not attainable.

As our survey results show, most Singaporeans do believe work/life balance is achievable, provided they either find the right employer or they take matters into their own hands.

This is good news for job seekers because the recent conversations we’ve had with them shows that work/life balance has shot up their priority list. It’s replaced job security now that we’re seeing such strong jobs numbers.

While salary and career progression are also important factors in a job seeker’s decision, it’s the potential for work/life balance that can be the deal breaker in an offer that otherwise ticks all the boxes.

The most common work/life balance approaches we see are compressed working weeks and part-time work. Job sharing and working from home are also becoming more common.

The employers we speak to that have practical and flexible working options in place often say productivity has increased and staff retention and loyalty have improved because their employees’ work/life balance is better. Employers that offer flexible working options to support their employees also gain a good reputation in their industry.

Simple, flexible working options can make the difference between keeping and losing staff at a critical time, when the best employees are needed to drive recovery.

The key is to make available the flexible working options most sought after by employees. A one-size fits-all approach will not work. That’s why over one third of our survey respondents said work/life balance is only attainable if they make it work. It’s important for employers to speak to their staff about the options that will allow them to achieve the desired work/life balance.

If you are feeling overwhelmed, you should first determine what you need to achieve a work/life balance. Then research what policies are in place and try to find examples where they have been successfully applied. Then find a time to talk with your manager about your work arrangements.

It is an investment but it’s worth the effort for both individuals and employers.

Individuals who maintain a work/life balance:
• feel more fulfilment and are usually happier working for an employer that supports their right to make choices between work and home life
• are less stressed and as a result are usually healthier, both physically and mentally
• are more likely to feel in control of their life because they have choices as opposed to feeling as if they are being forced to sacrifice work or other priorities

Employers that offer a work/life balance:
• often say productivity has increased
• retain and attract high quality staff
• have higher levels of staff loyalty
• gain a good reputation in their industry
• will usually have lower employment costs associated to absenteeism

Ultimately, we see flexible working policies as a positive move for both employers and employees and we hope to see continued improvements in this area.

The survey was conducted on www.hays.sg. 783 people responded.