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Open Access
Article
Publication date: 31 October 2023

Johan Ingemar Lorentzon, Lazarus Elad Fotoh and Tatenda Mugwira

This paper aims to explore the impacts of remote auditing on auditors’ work and work-life balance.

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Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the impacts of remote auditing on auditors’ work and work-life balance.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper adopted a qualitative online survey approach using open-ended reflections from 98 highly experienced auditors. The survey design aligns with a “Big Q” approach to qualitative data. The reflections were interpreted through the theoretical lens of the social presence theory.

Findings

Auditors underscore that remote auditing has improved their work-life balance since it offers flexibility, greater autonomy and efficient use of time. However, they believe less social contact due to remote auditing can hurt their work.

Research limitations/implications

This study aimed to holistically comprehend the concept of work-life balance in a remote auditing setting. Therefore, the study refrained from making comparisons based on demographic information (e.g. gender, experience and type of audit firm).

Practical implications

The findings highlight the need for adopting flexible work arrangements that prioritise auditors’ well-being. This is critical for making the audit profession attractive and enhancing overall audit quality. Updated regulatory guidance and controls are needed concerning the use of technologies in remote auditing to ensure high-quality audits.

Social implications

The findings of this study can positively reshape public perception of the audit profession. Firstly, enhanced work-life balance can improve audit quality. Secondly, incorporating emerging technologies in auditing can result in society perceiving auditors as adaptive to innovation and technological advancement that has been touted for their potential for enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of audit and audit quality, potentially enhancing societal trust in auditing.

Originality/value

The findings of this study complement the auditing literature that has mainly focused on the traditional work paradigm, requiring in-person presence. The authors identify potential challenges emanating from auditors’ remote work and propose solutions for audit firms to improve work-life balance in a remote work setting.

Details

Accounting Research Journal, vol. 37 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1030-9616

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 October 2023

Faustino Calzón-Menéndez, María Sacristán-Navarro and Laura Cabeza-García

To empirically study the determinant factors of adopting work–life balance measures at the firm level.

Abstract

Purpose

To empirically study the determinant factors of adopting work–life balance measures at the firm level.

Design/methodology/approach

After reviewing the main theories that explain work–life balance practices, IBEX-35 Spanish companies during 2015–2019 are studied to see whether the firm sector, the presence of female employees, qualified personnel, a company agreement and an equality plan determine these types of practices.

Findings

The results indicate a negative relationship between the firm activity sector and adopting work–life balance practices. Industrial companies offer fewer work–life balance measures than service companies. A company agreement implies more extensive adoption of work-life practices. Older companies are characterized by greater adoption of work-life practices, in contrast to their level of profitability that is associated negatively with these practices.

Practical implications

Since it is difficult for industrial companies to change their idiosyncrasies, it is necessary to incorporate other measures that promote work–life balance, such as timetable flexibility. Companies and policymakers should promote the advantages of a company agreement to contribute to the implementation of work–life balance practices.

Originality/value

The empirical evidence is scarce, especially in Spain and at the company level, given that most previous studies have focused on workers and the Anglo-Saxon sphere. Given the growing interest in this topic in the business world, the authors intend to contribute to this scarce literature by incorporating variables considered in previous studies, as well as other more innovative ones (agreement, equality plan) in a single model through a longitudinal study.

Objetivo

Estudiar empíricamente los factores determinantes de la adopción de medidas de conciliación a nivel de empresa.

Diseño/metodología/enfoque

Tras revisar las teorías que explican la adopción de prácticas de conciliación, se estudia para las empresas españolas del IBEX-35 durante el periodo 2015–2019, si el sector de actividad, la presencia de mujeres y de personal cualificado, así como la existencia de un convenio de empresa y de un plan de igualdad, determinan este tipo de prácticas.

Resultados

Los resultados sugieren una relación negativa entre el tipo de sector al que pertenece la empresa y el índice de conciliación. Las compañías industriales poseen un menor índice de conciliación que las de servicios. La existencia de un convenio de empresa permite un mayor índice de conciliación. El índice de conciliación tiene mayor nivel de implantación en las empresas con mayor antigüedad si bien un mayor nivel de rentabilidad está asociado de modo negativo con las prácticas de conciliación.

Recomendaciones

En las empresas industriales es necesaria la incorporación de otras medidas que fomenten la conciliación, como, por ejemplo, la flexibilidad de entrada y salida. Animar a las empresas y policymarkers a incidir en las ventajas de un convenio de empresa puede contribuir al fomento de la implantación de medidas de conciliación.

Originalidad

La evidencia empírica es escasa para el caso español, y a nivel de empresa, dado que la mayoría de estudios previos han analizado al trabajador como objeto de estudio y pertenecen al ámbito anglosajón. Considerando el creciente interés de este tema en el mundo empresarial, se pretende contribuir a esta escasa literatura en España, incorporando tanto variables consideradas en estudios previos como otras más novedosas (convenio, plan de igualdad) a través de un estudio longitudinal.

Details

Academia Revista Latinoamericana de Administración, vol. 36 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1012-8255

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 August 2022

Attia Aman-Ullah, Hadziroh Ibrahim, Azelin Aziz and Waqas Mehmood

This study aimed to examine the direct impact of work–life balance on employee retention and turnover intentions among doctors in Pakistan. Further, it also aimed to test the…

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Abstract

Purpose

This study aimed to examine the direct impact of work–life balance on employee retention and turnover intentions among doctors in Pakistan. Further, it also aimed to test the mediating role of job satisfaction on these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

This study's data were collected from 394 doctors working in public hospitals in Pakistan, using survey-based questionnaires and stratified random sampling technique. For data analysis, structural equation modelling was utilised to investigate the direct and indirect associations among the variables, while Statistical Software for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was used for data management.

Findings

Work–life balance was found to have a positive association with employee retention and a negative association with turnover intention. Results suggest that a fair work–life balance is a significant predictor of employee retention and turnover intention. Also, job satisfaction significantly mediated the relationship between work–life balance and employee retention and between work–life balance and turnover intention.

Research limitations/implications

This study's focus was limited to doctors working in public hospitals. Thus, future research can extend the scope to other segments such as nurses, paramedics and pharmacists from both public and private organisations.

Practical implications

Human resource (HR) executives can improve employee retention and turnover intentions through strategic implementation of work–life balance practices. Policymakers should stress upon hospitals to implement favourable working hours that are satisfactory to employees to reduce turnover intention.

Social implications

In the healthcare industry, suitable work–life balance strategies will help improve employees' lifestyle, which will positively impact their family and social relationships.

Originality/value

This study is expected to contribute to the existing healthcare literature in the context of Pakistan by explaining the process by which work–life balance affects employee retention and turnover intention. Specifically, job satisfaction is the mechanism that explains these relationships.

Details

Asia-Pacific Journal of Business Administration, vol. 16 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1757-4323

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 January 2023

Ning Sun, Sai Liang, Hui Li and Haiyan Song

This study aims to examine the effect of several types of ex post idiosyncratic deals (i-deals) on work–life balance and work well-being, focusing on the mediating effect of…

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Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effect of several types of ex post idiosyncratic deals (i-deals) on work–life balance and work well-being, focusing on the mediating effect of work–life balance on the relationship between ex post i-deals and work well-being as well as the moderating effect of gender on the relationship between ex post i-deals and work–life balance in the hospitality industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a questionnaire survey of 642 hotel managers from developed cities in China and analyze the data with structural equation modeling. This study also conducts on-site interviews among 20 hotel managers to support conclusions of the survey.

Findings

The results indicate that task i-deals as well as career and incentives i-deals significantly promote work–life balance, thereby indirectly improving work well-being. However, the impact of flexibility i-deals on work–life balance and work well-being is insignificant. The influence of career and incentives i-deals on work–life balance for males is slightly stronger than that for females.

Practical implications

This study has practical implications for hotel employers in terms of using various ex post i-deals to motivate and retain hotel managers by improving personal work–life balance and work well-being.

Originality/value

As one of early attempts to highlight the potential of i-deals to serve as solutions for work–life conflicts and unhappiness issues among hotel managers, this study provides novel insights into the mediating process between ex post i-deals and work well-being from the work–life balance perspective as well as distinct influences of various ex post i-deals on work–life balance for male and female managers.

Details

International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management, vol. 35 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0959-6119

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 16 January 2023

Sophia Xiaoxia Duan, Hepu Deng and Santoso Wibowo

Digital technologies have been transforming the traditional workplace and reshaping how work is designed, performed and managed in organizations. This makes understanding digital…

3785

Abstract

Purpose

Digital technologies have been transforming the traditional workplace and reshaping how work is designed, performed and managed in organizations. This makes understanding digital work and its impact on job performance critically important. This study investigates the impact of digital work on job performance in organizations from the perspective of technology affordance.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive review of the related literature has been conducted, leading to the development of a conceptual model for exploring the impact of digital work on job performance from the perspective of technology affordance. Such a model is then tested and validated using structural equation modelling on the survey data collected in Australia.

Findings

The study shows that the use of digital technologies significantly improves coordination and knowledge sharing between individuals, leading to better work–life balance and improved job performance. Furthermore, the study reveals that the use of digital technologies that can enhance communication and decision-making does not significantly influence work–life balance and job performance in digital work.

Originality/value

This study presents a comprehensive investigation of the impact of digital work on job performance in organizations from the perspective of technology affordance. It explores the changing role of digital work in transforming existing working practices in organizations, and how different technology affordances in digital work can be actualized for improving work–life balance and job performance in a digitalized working environment.

Content available
Article
Publication date: 23 June 2022

Gregory R. Thrasher, Kevin Wynne, Boris Baltes and Reed Bramble

Although there is a small body of empirical research on the working lives of managers, both the popular media and the academic literature tend to ignore the distinct ways that…

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Abstract

Purpose

Although there is a small body of empirical research on the working lives of managers, both the popular media and the academic literature tend to ignore the distinct ways that role identities such as age and gender intersect to create a complex work–life interface for diverse managers. This gap is especially surprising considering that managerial roles are defined by unique demands and expectations that likely intersect with the differential life course shifts experienced by men and women, which has the potential to create specific challenges across the work and life domains of managers. The current study aims to address this gap through an intersectional examination of the non-linear effects of age and gender on the work–life balance of managers.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample of 421 managers, the authors apply statistical tests of the incremental validity of non-linear interaction terms to examine the complex relationship between age, gender and work–life balance.

Findings

Results support a non-linear U-shaped main effect of age on leader work–life balance. This effect is moderated by gender, however, with a non-linear U-shaped effect of age on work–life balance being supported for male managers – with female managers displaying no effect of age on work–life balance.

Practical implications

Based on these findings, the authors highlight the need for increased availability of flexible schedules and employee empowerment for managers as well as general employees.

Originality/value

The current study offers one of the first tests of the intersection of age and gender on the work–family interface of managers.

Details

Journal of Managerial Psychology, vol. 37 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0268-3946

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 October 2021

Galina Boiarintseva, Souha R. Ezzedeen and Christa Wilkin

Work-life balance experiences of dual-career professional couples with children have received considerable attention, but there remains a paucity of research on the definitions of…

1689

Abstract

Purpose

Work-life balance experiences of dual-career professional couples with children have received considerable attention, but there remains a paucity of research on the definitions of work-life balance among dual-career professional couples without children. This qualitative investigation sheds light on childfree couples' lives outside of work and their concomitant understanding of work-life balance.

Design/methodology/approach

The study draws on interviews with 21 dual-career professional couples in Canada and the US, exploring their non-work lives and how they conceive of work-life balance.

Findings

Thematic analyses demonstrate that this group, while free of child rearing responsibilities, still deals with myriad non-work obligations. These couples also defy uniform characterization. The inductive investigation uncovered four couple categories based on the individual members' career and care orientations. These included careerist, conventional, non-conventional and egalitarian couples. Definitions of work-life balance varied across couple type according to the value they placed on flexibility, autonomy and control, and their particular level of satisfaction with their work and non-work domains.

Originality/value

This study contributes to research at the intersection of work-life balance and various demographic groups by exploring the work-life balance of professional dual-career couples without children. Using an interpretive ontology, the study advances a typology of childfree dual-career professional couples. The findings challenge the rhetoric that these couples are primarily work-oriented but otherwise carefree. Thus, this study demonstrates ways that childfree couples are different as well as similar to those with children.

Details

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: An International Journal, vol. 41 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2040-7149

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 August 2007

Meghna Virick, Juliana D. Lilly and Wendy J. Casper

The purpose of this research is to examine how increased work overload of layoff survivors relates to their work‐life balance and job and life satisfaction.

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to examine how increased work overload of layoff survivors relates to their work‐life balance and job and life satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey methodology was used to collect data from 510 layoff survivors in a high tech company. Regression analyses and structural equation modeling were used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The study found that layoff survivors experience higher levels of workload which impact overall role overload that negatively affects work‐life balance. Findings suggest that high workloads experienced by layoff survivors contribute to reduced job and life satisfaction through reduced work‐life balance as a mediating mechanism.

Research limitations/implications

The data used in this paper is cross‐sectional and conducted within a single organization. Also, most of the data is obtained from self report survey data and subject to common method bias. As such, longitudinal studies are recommended for future research.

Originality/value

This study makes a contribution by joining two distinct research streams – the job loss literature with research on work‐family issues. Findings suggest that high workloads experienced by layoff survivors contribute to reduced job and life satisfaction with work‐life balance acting as a mediator. Future research should determine whether these findings generalize to diverse layoff survivors in distinct industries, and assess whether these phenomena change over time.

Details

Career Development International, vol. 12 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1362-0436

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 October 2021

Muhammad Irfan, Raja Abubakar Khalid, Syyed Sami Ul Haq Kaka Khel, Ahsen Maqsoom and Imran Khan Sherani

The purpose of this research is to examine the impact of work–life balance on project performance with mediating role of job burnout and moderating role of organizational support…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to examine the impact of work–life balance on project performance with mediating role of job burnout and moderating role of organizational support and what are the indirect effects of work–life balance on project performance via organizational support. For quantifying this effect, regression analysis has been used, and to calculate variable mediation, moderation and conditional process analysis, Model of Preacher and Hayes has been utilized.

Design/methodology/approach

Four variables and 23 measurement items have been extracted from published literature. Further, data collection for this research study has been conducted through the “Questionnaire” technique. The questionnaire has been developed based on previously established questions available in the literature. Finally, to obtain a more objective assessment, a statistical model is developed, and regression analysis is performed to highlight the most significant variables that impact the project performance.

Findings

The results of the study show that work–life balance harmed project performance, and organizational support was putting the main impact on project performance. Moreover, the findings of the study include the positive association of job burnout with project performance. And a total mediation effect was observed between work–life balance and project performance, through the bootstrapping results.

Practical implications

The authors have found that the theoretical model got practical implications, both for the managers and the organization involved in the project. The first implication is that adopting suitable work–life balance practices will be beneficial and support professionals working on projects. Professionals engaged in projects, both at managerial and team levels, are exposed to work–life balance resulting from work performance and personal life responsibilities. The empirical results revealed conflicts came across due to poor time management, and these conflicts have adverse effects on personal and professional commitments. It should be one of the basic considerations for project-based organizations, to make available ample time for the professionals to be with their families.

Originality/value

This study has enabled the authors to understand the work–life balance, organizational support and job burnout and how these variables affect project performance via their relationship as described in a theoretical framework. Furthermore, this research contributes toward the field by considering different ways to balance the work–family conflicts by examining the effects of work–life balance on Job Burnout and Project Performance. This study brought some significant insights and one of its kind in the developing countries and adds to the existing body of knowledge by developing a regression model that will help decision makers and top management to further enhance their project performance.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 30 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 June 2022

Diana K. Young, Alexander J. McLeod and Darrell Carpenter

In response to the tech skills gap, this research paper aims to examine the influence of occupational characteristics, gender and work-life balance on IT professionals'…

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Abstract

Purpose

In response to the tech skills gap, this research paper aims to examine the influence of occupational characteristics, gender and work-life balance on IT professionals' satisfaction with and commitment to their chosen occupation. In addition, the authors explore occupational differences across these investigated factors.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors employed a survey research method and partial least squares (PLS) modeling using 293 responses collected from professionals representing five clusters of Information Technology (IT) occupations. Authors further conducted exploratory post-hoc analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests to check for significant differences in key constructs across five IT occupational clusters.

Findings

Occupational characteristics were found to be significantly related to respondents' occupational satisfaction while work-life balance was associated with their level of occupational commitment. Authors also found that that the influence of work-life balance on occupational commitment was more positive for females than for males. Finally, significant differences were found for task significance, task variety, task autonomy, work-life balance and compensation across the five occupational clusters examined.

Originality/value

A key contribution of this study is the focus on IT professionals' satisfaction with and commitment to their chosen occupation rather than a job, organization or profession. Accordingly, the authors contribute a nuanced understanding of an occupation as a facet of job, professional and career outcomes. Authors also explore how gender moderates the influence of work-life balance on occupational commitment. Finally, rather than treating the IT profession as a unified whole as has been done in most prior studies, authors explore satisfaction and commitment related differences across occupational clusters.

Details

Information Technology & People, vol. 36 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0959-3845

Keywords

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