Q-COMP goes to the show

Did you see us at this year's Ekka?

Our first time at the show was in the Lifestyle and Leisure Pavilion where we spoke to Ekka visitors about staying happy in work and in life and promoting a work/life balance.

What's work/life balance?

• Looks at prioritising career and ambition on one hand, and pleasure, leisure, family and spiritual development on the other.
• Well researched and proven to have benefits for employers and employees.
• Both employers and employees have a role to play in work/life balance and need to take responsibility.
• Doesn't have to be big change or change made all at once - something as simple as doing something good for yourself can help.

What are the benefits?

• A reduction of the impact of work on home and family life
• Reduced stress levels
• Control over time management in meeting work and life commitments
• Increased job satisfaction
• Reduced employee turnover rates
• Lower recruitment and up front training costs associated with reduced turnover
• Being seen as an employer of choice by the community
• Increased return on investment with training (as employees stay longer)
• Reduced absenteeism
• Reduced use of sick leave
• Reduction in employee stress levels
• Improved morale and job satisfaction
• Greater staff loyalty and commitment
• Improved productivity

What are some work/life initiatives?

• Flexible work hours
• Banked time arrangements
• Working from home (such as easing back from maternity leave)
• Part-time employment opportunities
• Employee assistance programs
• Health and wellness program including free access to flu vaccinations, support of recreation and fitness initiatives such as Bridge to Brisbane
• Leave provisions such as parental and family leave
• Study assistance program
• Opportunities to participate in community activities

Q-COMP has a number of these initiatives in place.

For more info, check out the work/life balance info kit and other resources at the Office of Fair and Safe Work Queensland

We want to hear from you-share the work/life balance initiatives in your workplace by placing a comment below.