Work-life balance is important for both employees and the companies that employ them. Workers who feel they have some control and ownership over their own lives have better relationships with their employers and are better able to leave their home issues at home (and their work issues at work). They tend to be more motivated and productive and less stressed at work.
To help reduce employee stress and increase productivity, consider offering some or all of these work-life balance benefits.
Exercise reduces stress, elevates mood, and improves cognitive function. Adults should get at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day, as stated by the Mayo Clinic. Employees who exercise and eat well are less likely to become ill and miss work.
If your building has a gym facility, encourage your employees to use it on a regular basis. In the alternative, offer them membership discounts at a gym in your area. Another option is to provide onsite fitness classes, with instructors who come to your workplace. Encourage employees with fitness tracking devices to connect with each other for motivation and healthy competition.
A family-friendly work environment can benefit both the company and its employees. As a parent, you are never really off duty, even when you are at work. Childcare issues can be frustrating and distracting for employees with young children. Lack of childcare also causes them to miss work.
An onsite childcare facility with trusted staff could be a godsend for working parents. Another option is to offer a childcare service discount. If you are not able to provide childcare or help offset the cost, give your employees as much flexibility as possible to care for their children. For example, allow flexible start and end times for parents who need to drop their kids off or pick them up at school.
Most employees would prefer to have flexible hours. Many want the ability to work remotely. Flexibility may be the most popular work-life balance benefit for employees.
Having flexible hours or working from home gives employees more freedom to manage their time and their lives. It can lead to higher engagement levels, and that is better for your business.
Occasional company outings can help boost morale, reduce stress, and allow employees to get to know each other in a different setting. Choose an outing or event that suits your company’s culture and budget. Plan a scavenger hunt, have a park day, take the team go-karting, spend the day at a theme park, hold an office bake-off, or, if you are feeling extravagant, host a gala company ball.
Employees need to know their hard work is appreciated. Work social events help promote employee satisfaction and benefit the company.
Employee benefits, including work-life balance benefits, are crucial for attracting and retaining the best workers. If you want to build or upgrade your employee benefits package, our experienced agent can help.