Global workforce abandons quest for Work Life balance

Research published today by Vedior, one of the recruitment companies shows that the global workforce has stopped striving for a healthier work life balance, with less than a quarter of respondents putting their private lives before work.

Vedior carried out an online survey of 1,000 employees from almost 30 countries worldwide, from the UK to India, about whether they were happy with their work life balance. The study revealed that while almost half of all employees believe that they spend too much time at work, only a quarter of respondents wished to address the issue. The research also produced some interesting insights on work practices around the world.

Nearly 50% of American employees felt that their professional life takes up a considerable amount of time. Sadly however, only 19% of Americans said that their private life is more important to them than work.

Contrary to global trends, but in line with popular perception, Australian workers are striving for a better quality of life; 45% would like to create a greater balance.

British workers remain disillusioned. Only 27% claimed to have a good work life balance.

In contrast, 40% of French employees said that they have achieved an equilibrium.

Indian workers seem to be the most diligent as only 12.5% said that they would like to reduce the burden of their professional life.

Commenting on the report, Zach Miles, Chief Executive of Vedior, said: ìThis research provides an interesting insight into the psyche of the global workforce. Not only are employees experiencing a reduced quality of life, they appear to have little desire or inclination to change the situation. A poor work life balance not only affects the lives of individual workers. It can, over the longer term, lead to a down-turn in business performance. It is therefore imperative that either employers seek a change in attitude before they experience the fall-out of this trend or employees take more direct action to improve their lot.î