Work-Family Programs
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Work-family programs, also known as work-life programs refer to the policies and methods geared towards ensuring a work-life balance for the employees (Cascio, W 2013). The term is, however, rather crude, as what defines balance for one employee may not define the same for another.
The case for work-family programs would emphasize the following: caring for young children generally referred to as childcare, caring for the elderly, also called eldercare, and stress management.
The human resources management should aim to help the employee attain job satisfaction as this also affects the level of productivity (Kelly, M 2011). Good work-family programs help to improve employee morale, leading to better productivity at the workplace. Working full-time seems to take away time and energy from employees who are also engaged in other activities in their lives such as caring for children and elderly relatives (P. Boxall 2011). Perhaps the first point that is widely recommended by scholars is shorter and more flexible hours (Bogle, C.J. 2010). Companies that do not have programs in place to help their workers manage their work and non-work roles are probably losing their competitive edge over their competitors (E.E. Lawler III 2012). They could also be compromising on their productivity without realizing it. Family friendly programs such as the work-family programs have become an integral subject in human resources conferences. The topic is being discussed in Wall Street Journal’s business section, implying its importance in the business field.