Work Life Case Study
Work-Life Balance… A Case of Social Responsibility or Competitive Advantage?
2002 Worklifebalance.com, Inc.
Human Resources Dept, Dr. Parsons Georgia Institute of Technology Prepared by: Sunil Joshi, John Leichne, Keith Melanson, Cristina Pruna, Nicolai Sager, Cathi Jo Story, Kevin Williams
WORK-LIFE BALANCE
INTRODUCTION
The role of work has changed throughout the world due to economic conditions and social demands. Originally, work was a matter of necessity and survival. Throughout the years, the role of “work” has evolved and the composition of the workforce has changed. Today, work still is a necessity but it should be a source of personal satisfaction as well. One of the vehicles to help provide attainment of personal and professional goals is work-life benefits and programs. Implementation of these programs in the United States (“U.S.”) and the European Union (“EU”) countries differs, due to fundamental beliefs about the goals of such programs. Are work-life balance programs in existence as a result of a social responsibility to employees or to provide a competitive advantage to employers? Before we can answer this question, we need to define what work-life balance is. Many people think of work-life balance only in the framework of what the company does for the individual. However, work-life balance is a two prong approach. The other prong of work-life balance, which many individuals overlook, relates to what individuals do for themselves. According to Jim Bird, CEO of Worklifebalance.com1, “Work-life balance is meaningful achievement and enjoyment in everyday life.” The primary way companies can help facilitate work-life balance for their employees is through work-life programs and training. Achievement and enjoyment at work is a critical part of anyone’s work-life balance. Furthermore, achievement and enjoyment in the other three quadrants of one’s life (e.g. family, friends and self) is critical as well (see Figure 1 in the Appendix).
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