As a recruiter, one of the most common questions I ask candidates in regards to work is “what are you looking for?” And more often than not the response is “flexibility and a company that will offer great work/life balance”. This seems to be the answer provided by an increasing number of candidates whether they are old, young, male or female. So essentially, I ask the question, what is work/life balance?

Work/life balance refers to the balance between work/career and lifestyle/leisure and there is a need to address this issue and an increased desire for individuals to achieve this. Research has indicated that the need to address and highlight the importance of work/life balance is increasingly important.

Recent statistics show that one of the major factors contributing to ones desire to achieve work/life balance is stress and the impact stress has on an employee. Stress in the workplace is a growing concern for both employers and employees, as it can derive from a number of factors including excessive work hours, unreasonable demands, job insecurity etc. A survey conducted by Medibank in 2007, concluded that stress related absenteeism was costing employers approximately $10.11 billion a year!

Naturally there are steps you as an individual can take to personally ensure that work related stress is minimised. Some of which include the ability to;

• Recognise the warning signs
• Take care of yourself – stay active, healthy and ensure you get enough sleep
• Effectively prioritise and organise your workload
• Improve emotional intelligence (self awareness, self management, social awareness and relationship management)
• Break bad habits (smoking, excessive drinking)

Stress management is not only the responsibility of the individual, but also of the employer. A successful employer will ensure they listen and communicate effectively with their employees to optimise efficiencies and provide solutions to ensure the employee is achieving their best. High expectations can sometimes be unsustainable; an employee cannot be expected to work a ‘standard work week’ of 70 hours. Everyone has other interests and responsibilities – family, kids, relationships, sports and sleep! Research proves that when employees work beyond their capacity the employer will inevitably pay the price.

It is important for companies to recognise employee’s abilities and contributions as well as their commitments beyond work and therefore allow provisions for flexibility and a work/life balance. As a mother myself, I understand firsthand the importance of workplace flexibility. Female employees who have had children still remain competent and committed but often will require flexibility in hours.

It is important to accommodate the ever changing needs of employees and by offering flexibility and an environment fostering a work/life balance, you will ensure a stable, committed and focused employee base.

Written by Linda Lewin