Creating innovative policies that embrace work-life balance

With pandemic effects and the increase in the competitive employment market, HR leadership teams have seen a shift with employees seeking work-life balance policies as an essential part of their overall benefit plans.

Many companies have scrambled to find ways in which they can accommodate employees’ needs for balance while continuing to drive business forward. Below are three policy implementations which can immediately improve job satisfaction.

Remote/ hybrid work schedule

When employees are able to stave time off of their daily commute, they are able to manage their time and be more efficient both at work and home. The ability to get the small things done during breaks including possible chores and quick errands leaves more time to enjoy their weekend doing the things they want to do, rather than have to. Companies are also finding that their employees are more productive with a remote or hybrid schedule and are happier overall.

Focus on physical and mental health

Many companies have implemented additional sick and mental health days to their PTO. One particularly innovative company implemented an “All-Company Mental Health Friday” once a month. During this day, all employees across all departments take the day off with no meetings and emails. Taking a day to focus on mental health helps keep employees refreshed and balanced.

Unlimited Vacation Days

When it comes to recruiting top talent, vacation policies can be a deal breaker. Particularly candidates who are coming in with years of experience don’t want to be confined to vacation accrual policies. Many companies have adopted unlimited vacation policies where employees are not restricted by the number of days they take per year. Employees work with their managers to determine their vacation days as long as they are still able to get their work done. Many companies have found this to be a win/win. Employees are happier and more mentally refreshed when they are able to take the time they need. Additionally, many times they are more deliberate in their planning and take time off based on what is needed as opposed to what has been allocated.

As the job market slows down with layoffs and inflation impacts, this is putting a pinch on business revenue which could ultimately push work culture back in the direction of pre-pandemic days. It will be up to HR leadership to evaluate the benefits of work-life balance policies and overall employee satisfaction to see if these policies will be here to stay.