Promoting Work-Life Balance in Your Business

These days, many people are trying to strike the right balance between work and life.
It’s a constant battle likened to walking a tight rope. Gone are the days of working 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday, plus many additional hours. Modern employees now want to have the best of both worlds by enjoying their family and maintaining a satisfying and fulfilling job.
Why not right?

It has been suggested that when employees have a greater sense of control in their own lives they perform better at work and are happier at home. Balanced employees tend to be more engaged and motivated at work which in turn equals higher productivity, performance and loyalty.

Businesses who promote work-life balance become sought after in their industries and become employers of choice. This means they have a higher selection pool of candidates when recruiting.

So, what does work-life balance really mean? This will come down to each employee’s interpretation and personal needs.

Here are Key Business Advisors top 10 work-life balance offerings.

1. Get them huffing and puffing.

   Doctors recommend we all get at least 30 minutes of physical exercise a day. It helps reduce stress levels, builds our immune system and makes us feel good. Some businesses will install an office gym or subsidise gym memberships or PT sessions.

2. Child care services.

   For many parent’s, childcare can really impact their ability to work. You need to factor in drop offs, pickups and the ever-rising cost of having a child in childcare! Some businesses have onsite day-care available (which is amazing) or allow you to salary sacrifice childcare. Other organisations offer subsidised school holiday programs. These come in handy, especially when school children are on holiday 3 months of the year.

3. Work smarter not harder.

   Many companies are embracing the 4-day work week or compressed fortnight. How often do you need just 1 day to get your personal administration complete? Companies who have embraced this idea have seen a rise in productivity.

4. Career breaks.

   Allow your employees to follow their dreams. This could involve a 6-month sabbatical to trek around Nepal or finishing an hour early for 3 months to attend a photography course. Employees really appreciate being able to do something nourishing for their soul.

5. They say the best way to the heart is through the belly.

   I have worked in organisations that have supplied fresh fruit on Monday’s and wine and beer on Friday afternoons. Staff love this initiative. However, always be mindful of responsible drinking.

6. Getting to know you.

   Company outings are always a great way to connect with your staff. It can be as simple as a monthly breakfast or perhaps an all-day event such as a day at the races.

7. Community days.

   Most employees want to work for an employer who is socially responsible. This could involve charity fundraising or helping at a local shelter.

8. Sssshhhhhh.

   Let’s face it, some days are just full on. You may have been running late due to traffic or had your first customer of the day verbally abuse you over the phone. Sometimes we just need a little time out. Create a quiet space where employees can just go and chill for a few minutes and compose themselves, ready for the next task.

9. Be flexible.

   You will have a happier workforce if you are understanding of your employees needs outside of work. Be flexible with their roster where you can. Can they finish 2 hours early on Thursday as they have an appointment? Or if their child is sick are they able to work from home?

10. Holidays!

    Encourage employees to use their annual leave. We all need some R&R. You will all be grateful for it.

Finally, always lead by example. If your employees see you enjoying these benefits they will follow. If you would like to know more about being an employer of choice give Key Business Advisors a call on 1300 4 ADVICE and one of our highly skilled HR experts can assist.