How to Have Better Work-Life Balance for Your Employees

The Philippines recently ranked 59th out of 60 countries in terms of work-life balance according to a study by Remote. This statistic, which highlights Filipino employees working an average of 40.63 hours per week, underscores a pressing concern for businesses to prioritize employee well-being.

For small businesses, especially ones with the new generation of employees that are already enlightened with various matters, employing a fair work schedule that will still let them live life to the fullest is of paramount importance.

Fortunately, there are steps businesses can take to create a healthier work-life balance for their teams. Here explore three actionable strategies:

Go Hybrid

The hybrid work model allows employees to split their workweek between the office and a remote location. This flexibility empowers employees to manage personal responsibilities such as childcare or errands without sacrificing productivity. Studies by Stanford University have shown that hybrid models can lead to increased employee satisfaction and productivity, with some teams reporting a 13 percent performance boost.

Revisit Leave Policies

Offering generous leave policies, including paid vacation days, sick leave, and mental health days, demonstrates your commitment to employee well-being. Employees who feel supported in taking time off are more likely to return refreshed and engaged. Consider offering additional leave options, such as extended maternity leave, leave for special occasions, mental health leaves, and the like.

Explore a Four-Day Workweek (if feasible)

A compressed workweek, where employees work four full days instead of five, can significantly enhance work-life balance. A pilot program conducted in Iceland over a period of two years found that a four-day workweek led to increased productivity and employee morale, with no reduction in quality of service delivered. If feasible for your business model, consider piloting a four-day workweek program to assess its effectiveness within your organization.

By implementing these strategies, you can create a work environment that fosters a healthy work-life balance for your employees. Happy and well-rested employees are more likely to be productive, creative, and loyal to your company. Investing in your employees’ well-being is the right thing to do, as it will also prove to be quite the best choice for your business moving forward. (GFB)