While a number of factors go into creating a positive work environment, work-life balance is one that people tend to value most. Statista reports that 72% of U.S. employees said work-life balance is important to them when looking for a new job.
This means that as a business leader, fostering a company culture that supports employees’ work-life balance is a core responsibility. Many steps for improving work-life balance are up to employees themselves to determine what works for them, but there are also strides that leaders can make to help employees establish a balanced baseline.
- Be flexible. Understand that circumstances change and work with employees when they do. Be accommodating when personal life situations arise, and let employees know that it’s okay to make adjustments to hours or priorities when necessary.
- Promote honesty. Encourage employees to communicate when something isn’t working for them. People should feel comfortable mentioning if they’re consistently working overtime to meet deadlines or feeling overwhelmed and know that they’ll be supported in finding a solution.
- Encourage breaks. People discuss long-term burnout, but it’s important to remember that burnout also happens in the short-term. Employees may experience the dreaded midday slump if they don’t take breaks during the workday to recharge. Remind employees to take at least two 15-minute breaks throughout the day to chat with family or friends, step outside for some sunshine, or just take some breaths. They should also fully step away for lunch for at least 30 minutes.
- Send vacation reminders. Employees often forget to take their vacation time or feel like they don’t have the capacity to do so. Talk to employees about using their vacation time and work with them to figure out how they can make it fit in their schedules. Make sure they know they are entitled to their time off and are encouraged to use it.
- Prioritize family and health. Set the precedent for priorities. Everyone in your business should know that while work is important, family and health always come first.
- Set the example. Your employees will follow what you do, so set the right example for them. Be mindful about establishing healthy boundaries, taking time off, and staying flexible with your own schedule as needed. If employees see you taking your own work-life balance seriously, they’ll know to do the same.
Businesses that prioritize work-life balance for employees tend to see greater productivity, increased employee retention rates, and even a more diverse workforce. When you do the work to take better care of your employees, you’re doing the work to take better care of your business.