Living in a busy city like Hong Kong can make striking a balance between family and work a challenging task. Sometimes, our struggles may even cause us health and well-being, especially when you are a working female. According to 2019 Cigna 360° Well-being Survey, top causes of stress for women are too much work (20%), especially for working mothers, personal health concerns (15%) and personal finance concerns (13%).1
Working moms’ voice needs to be heard
Hong Kong has extended statutory maternity leave from 10 weeks to 14 weeks since October 2018. It finally put us on par with the minimum standard laid down by the International Labour Organisation. Despite the step forward, society still saw a need to increase breastfeeding-friendly facilities and child-care services. Lack of flexibility, such as the freedom to work from home and sufficient family leaves also makes it stressful for working mothers to juggle between career and family.2 Women joined the Cigna 360° Well-being Survey want better employer support, as 52% think that workplace wellness programs do not address the specific needs of each gender and 50% feel that senior management do not seriously support workplace wellness programs.1
In fact, flexibility in the workplace has become increasingly important. According to the 2017 Robert Half Salary Guide, many Hong Kong employees now regard work-life balance as more attractive than higher pay. 42% surveyed are willing to accept less pay in exchange for flexible working hours.3
Benefits of Work-family balance
A family-friendly policy demonstrates a company's commitment to the well-being of its employees and their families. The benefits of a good day at work are actually felt at home, and visa versa. A healthy work-family balance is associated with greater job satisfaction, commitment to achievement, and family satisfaction, which leads to greater productivity.4
Family-friendly policy
It’s time for Hong Kong employers to respond to the needs of modern working mothers. After all, it’s all pros, no cons, because offering the necessary incentives and support will result in more motivated and loyal employees.3 And for employees, the next time you look for a new job, why not Make the Right Choice for Your Health and opt for companies with higher flexibility?