Work-Life Balance — The New Equation
The work environment today is significantly different from what it was a few months ago. The strategies previously used to achieve work-life balance may need to be adjusted to account for the current COVID-19 situation.
Work-life balance is key to employee satisfaction, employee retention, and increased productivity. Here are some tips that you, as an employer, can adopt to navigate this new world and restore employee work-life balance.
Acknowledge and Understand the New Normal
A large portion of employees now work from home and the boundaries between work life and home life can blur. Adjusting to remote work, the lack of face to face interactions and the responsibility for childcare can be stressful. In this new work environment, employees can easily feel overwhelmed and overworked so it is essential for employers to acknowledge these challenges, empathize, and support employees in these times of transition.
Keep the Lines of Communication Open
Keeping the lines of communication open is the key. Regular and timely communication, promoting conversations, and virtual team meetings to build trust and maintain team camaraderie will help employees remain connected, reduce stress, and promote a healthy work-life balance. Using tools like Slack and Teams can improve communication and connectivity for remote workers. For additional information read Technology Tools That Enhance Employee Productivity and Engagement.
Provide Structure
Establish guidelines and schedules that support the new work arrangement in regards to workflow and work expectations. This will help employees plan and manage their work-life in a harmonious balance with their personal life. This includes setting a work schedule, establishing boundaries, designating a workspace, and allowing for meal and rest breaks.
COVID-19 has impacted the work settings of many organizations that have needed to transition to remote work. This transition can be challenging for employers when trying to manage, maintain, and promote a healthy work-life balance. If you need assistance in this area, we are happy to help. Visit us at www.premierhrsolutions.net
Premier HR Solutions is an Austin based HR consulting company providing human resource services to emerging companies. Whether your company employs 5 people or 500, we can provide additional human resource assistance to help you grow or manage your business. If you have any questions about this topic or any other HR or recruiting-related questions, we are happy to help. Sign up for our Free Membership Service to learn more about our services and to receive a host of complimentary HR resources.
