3 Ways to Promote Work-Life Balance

In a recent survey by Visier, 56% of respondents said they stayed connected to work while on vacation. Of those who worked on PTO, 72% of them considered quitting. During the COVID-19 pandemic, most workplaces moved to a hybrid or fully-remote work structure. Many employees have enjoyed this new work style; however, 2 years into hybrid work, the lines of work-life balance are blurred. It is important for employers to not only  ensure their employees not only take their PTO, but enjoy it as well! 

Here are 3 ways you can promote more work-life balance for your employees to help keep them happy:

1. Educate employees about work-life balance
   Many employees may think they have an understanding of what a healthy work-life balance is, but that may not be the case. As hybrid work has become the norm, more employees are likely working beyond their usual work hours. Some are probably checking in on emails over the weekend. With smartphones, work is more accessible than ever before. Introduce regular training about work-life balance, burnout, and how to turn off work-brain in order to spend time with their friends and family. By communicating these themes regularly, your employees will continue to feel supported and as though work-life balance is not just accepted, but encouraged. 
2. Encourage lunch breaks
   We all remember the days of work lunches. Getting together with our co-workers and stopping at the local café to grab a sandwich and socialize. One of the downfalls of hybrid work is the midday break is often forgotten. It is just as (if not more) important now for your employees to take breaks. During your check-ins, ensure they are taking a lunch break. If someone hits a milestone, or has done an exceptionally good job recently, send them a gift card for a lunch of their choice.
3. Lead by example
   As a manager, it's your job to show your employees what work-life balance should look like. If you take lunch breaks and vacation time, your team will know that they can also do so, without guilt. In a management position it can be harder to completely remove yourself from work, especially if you have a new employee or are under a lot of project deadlines. Try your hardest to take the vacation time you need. You deserve it too! 

Work-life balance is a hot topic, as it should be. Continuing to stress the importance of a balanced life is key for your employees' wellness and retention. Need help with your own work-life balance? Contact your local PeopleShare branch to see how we can take some of your staffing needs off of your plate.