Fewer people quitting at companies with work-life balance policy

Fewer people quit from organisations which implement work-life balance practices, such as flexible work arrangements. That's the experience of many companies with work-life strategies in place.

At Tampines Primary, school starts at 8am and teachers are encouraged to leave by 1.30pm every Wednesday and Friday. This allows them to spend more time with their families.

Mrs Wong-Tan Bin Eng, Principal, Tampines Primary School, said: "I don't see the teachers rushing so much from meeting to meeting. I don't see them rushing to complete their work. I see that they look happier and in a sense, they are also able to contribute well.

The school's flexible arrangement can apply to any of the over 70 staff and the principal said the trust in her teachers prevents any abuse.

Having shorter teaching hours is actually a direct feedback from the staff themselves. This allows the teachers more free time to plan their lessons or attend meetings. And when they go to class, they will not feel stressed and can teach well.

For one catering company, it forces workers to stay out of the office as one of its work-life balance practices. And for those who have been with the company for three years, they are given a 10-day break as a reward.

Tony Seow, managing director, Purple Sage, said: "I used to work very long hours and I realise that's not a good balance and it's taking a toll on my health. And I realised that I think it's best to work with your team and let them have enough balance. Because when you're not at your best, you're not really focusing or giving the best to your customers."

The company's pro-family policies have helped increase its retention rate by four per cent, to 85 per cent last year. - CNA/vm

Article Source CNA and Image Source AntBag.
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