Work/Life Balance Crucial for Job Seekers: Impact on Family Planning and Recruitment

A recent survey by Express Employment Professionals-Harris Poll reveals the significant impact of work/life balance on U.S. job seekers. Many are delaying family plans due to work demands, and they prioritize employers who value work/life balance.

1. The Work/Life Balance Dilemma
   • 34% of employed U.S. job seekers delay starting a family due to work/life balance issues.
   • 59% consider work/life balance essential when choosing a future employer.
2. Generational Shift in Perspective
   • Younger generations re-evaluate work-life priorities, influenced by parents’ choices.
   • Delaying family until “everything is in place” becomes a common approach.
3. Reframing Work/Life Balance
   • Work/life ‘harmony’ or ‘integration’ suggested over ‘balance’.
   • Viewing work and personal life as complementary rather than competing.
4. Creative Benefit Offerings
   • Companies innovate to support employees’ personal challenges:
     • Providing transportation during emergencies.
     • Flexible scheduling to accommodate family needs.
     • Special arrangements for childcare.
5. Childcare Challenges and Solutions
   • Rising childcare costs delay family planning.
   • On-site daycares, part-time roles, and job sharing can help.
   • Offering paid time off in smaller increments.
6. Impact on Recruiting and Retention
   • Lack of work/life balance affects recruitment and retention.
   • Candidates prioritize flexible work arrangements and remote options.
7. Transition from Request to Expectation
   • Work/life balance programs become standard expectations.
   • More than 40 years of HR experience supports the shift.
8. Embracing Working Parents
   • Supporting working parents is vital for businesses.
   • Creative flexibility attracts and retains top talent.

The survey underscores the importance of work/life balance in the modern workplace. Employers that offer flexible arrangements and creative benefits are more likely to attract and retain top talent. As work/life balance transitions from a perk to an expectation, businesses must adapt to meet the evolving needs of job seekers and employees.