SubscribeThat seems to be the finding of a new survey by Monster.com, which found that workers and employers see the importance of work/life balance initiatives quite differently. According to the findings, the outlook is grim for employees who place a high priority on initiatives and benefits designed to support work/life balance. Employers just don’t seem to appreciate the value that such programs hold for employees, despite the volumes of information available to suggest otherwise. The survey finds that the likelihood of improvements over today’s offerings is slightly better than your chances of getting heads in the flip of a coin – 56%, to be precise.
So, what’s an employee to do? Get really clear on what’s most important to you and how you honor it in your life.
What’s your definition of work/life balance? Go on, get specific… What’s the maximum number of hours you’re willing to work each day/week? How far are you willing to commute? How accessible are you willing to be outside of work hours? How would you prefer to handle things when your kids get sick? Are you willing to travel? If so, how often? Where are you willing to compromise, or not?
Being really clear about your own definition of work/life balance and where you are willing to bend (or not) enables you to make empowered decisions. When you know what you are looking for, evaluating potential employers, job offers, or careers, or making decisions post maternity/paternity leave, becomes much easier. You’ll have a framework for decision-making.
When you’re faced with a decision, make it from this place of increased self-awareness and clarity. You’ll be making a decision in conscious choice based on what you value most, rather than insecurity, scarity, fear and the like.