An employment policy including the offer of career breaks, reduced hours, and flexible working, underpin a talent retention and management strategy, according to Birmingham lawyer Simon Bond, speaking ahead of National Work-Life Week. A recent Close Business Barometer indicated that 50 percent of SME owner managers in the UK say the state of the economy is taking its toll on their personal life, whilst 29 percent feel their work-life balance has deteriorated. Simon Bond, head of Employment at Midlands law firm Challinors, says: “Work-life balance is an essential element of high performance work practices. By adopting a flexible approach to how employees are treated and their contracts of employment, much can be done to nurture the mutual respect, by acknowledging that there is life, at home, outside of the workplace. “Work-Life Week, on the 24th to 28th September, is a great opportunity for employers to provide a tangible platform for discussing the issues with staff, raising the profile of the Work-Life Balance and that they as an employer recognise the importance – the need for flexible working time arrangements is paramount, but it will only work where other policies are in place that secure employees’ commitment and motivation. “Given the depth of the recession and competitive pressures companies continue to face, they should embrace the work-life balance, and see it as having enormous potential to support commercial sustainability, recovery and survival. Many firms are already running a tight ship, and retaining the talent they have worked hard to keep is a real priority, and will help put them in a strong position ready for when the economy recovers.

Helping these highly valued employees to achieve the work-life balance, with features and benefits that match their lives and lifestyle, could play a significant role in boosting staff retention levels.” Organisers of the Work/Life Balance Week are encouraging employers to plan a programme of events and activities that offer something for everyone. From creating a better working environment while people are at work, such as measures that enhance health and wellbeing during the working day, and keep stress levels down, to helping employees make the most of their own time away from work.