Most people keep family and work very separate. However, most of their time is often taken up by work. In addition, work costs energy and in the end there is not much left over for family activities. Modern companies therefore create the right framework conditions to make it possible to combine family and career.
Family as an important factor in career choice
The work-life balance is more important than ever these days. Above all, time with the family plays a decisive role and is therefore an important factor for many employees when choosing a job. Many companies are still lagging behind the adjustments and are forcing employees to make a choice between family and career. However, most employees do not want to make this decision or decide against a career. Whereas a few years ago, career was still the most important factor for many people, this view has now been reversed. The desire for a family and a balanced private life is greater. If a company wants to remain successful in the long term, it must adapt to the new demands of employees. Companies that offer a better work-life balance have a better chance of finding employees who are willing to make compromises. For the company, work-life balance has several advantages. Employees are happier and more motivated. This can also lead to greater loyalty to the company. Especially in times of a shortage of skilled workers, this should not be underestimated.
Making a company more family-friendly
For many employees, it is difficult to reconcile family and career because the options are not available. A lack of childcare places, temporary jobs and high childcare costs are obstacles that are difficult to overcome. However, companies can take measures to make it easier for their own employees to combine family and career. One of the most important steps is to switch to different working models. Instead of relying solely on full-time, on-site positions, a variation of full-time, part-time, on-site, home office and other options can give employees some flexibility. This makes it easier to take time for the family. Employers are often parents themselves and are also interested in spending more time with their own families. It is therefore a good idea to bring childcare directly into the company. Some companies now have company kindergartens or daycare centers where employees’ children are looked after while they work. This is more difficult to implement in some sectors or companies than in others. The location plays just as much a role as the working model. And of course, a nuclear power plant may not be the right place for childcare. After all, we’re not in Springfield. Employers can also accommodate their employees during and after parental leave by making them feel like they are still part of the team, easing the transition back into the company from parental leave. The problem with balancing family and career is always the double burden. It requires time management and organization, which usually simply degenerates into stress. This is where a company can start to make time management and organization easier for its own employees. After all, stressed employees are less productive, sick more often or simply lack concentration. So both sides win.
Conclusion
Reconciling work and family life is no easy task. Modern companies are looking for ways to make it easier for their employees to combine family and career. But not everything is always feasible. It is important to be creative and listen to employees’ wishes. That way, you can accommodate each other and everyone benefits.
