PORTLAND, Ore., Nov. 4, 2003: There is good news on the economic front. The U.S. Labor Department has reported a substantial rise in productivity, providing early signs of an economic turn-around. Given this trend, The Career Exposure Network(TM) recently conducted a poll to ask employees if they are they able to manage a healthy work/life balance? As a whole, employers and employees are always looking for the elusive work/life balance, because a happier, more satisfied workforce contributes to overall productivity and success at work.

The poll was conducted by The Career Exposure Network(TM) of sites, CareerWomen.com, MBACareers.com, DiversitySearch.com and CareerExposure.com, to determine the impact that the increased workload and productivity boost has had on employees and their ability to maintain their work/life balance.

The lack of balance skewed slightly higher in female respondents with 53 percent reporting that they are not satisfied with their work/life balance. However, 32 percent of diversity employees and 48 percent of MBAs responded that achieving balance is also a challenge.

"Given the downsizing of organizations over the last few years, coupled with technology advancements, today's workers have become extremely efficient -- they are productive, multi-tasking, working long hours, and contributing to the bottom line," said Jill Xan Donnelly, president, The Career Exposure Network. "While high productivity is a positive economic indicator, it raises concern for the strain this places on employees."

According to one CareerWomen.com respondent, work/life challenges seem to effect females more than males. "Work/life balance is so difficult for women. children, aging parents, home responsibilities all seem to be more women's issues. When seeking a promotion, I always consider can I do it all -- I don't think this is a consideration of my male colleagues."

According to the poll, MBA graduates trend towards longer work hours, yet the majority of the respondents appear to be managing the balancing act. One male MBACareers.com respondent commented, "The American economy has been built on the efforts and hard work of those who have come before. I think too many people are afraid of working hard. Yes, it does require compromise, but what doesn't?"

What do satisfied working professionals know about work/life balance that the rest of us can learn from? With work/life balance pressures on the rise, The Career Exposure Network(TM) has identified top techniques for maintaining balance. Universally, satisfaction appears to be driven through planned strategies and personal effort.

The Top Five Strategies For Achieving Work/Life Balance:

1. Budget your time both in and out of the office -- Schedule your time efficiently at work. Put yourself on your calendar and take some time for you and your family/friends.
 
2. Leave work on time at least three days per week -- There are times when working late just can't be helped, but try to leave on time at least 3 days a week.
 
3. Control interruptions and distractions -- Stay focused while in the office, and budget your time effectively. Try to schedule a block of time during the day without meetings when you can focus on your tasks with minimal interruptions.

4. Explore the availability of flex-time -- Research flex-time options within your organization. If available, it may be a helpful solution.

5. Seize the weekend -- Plan your time off as you plan your work week. Schedule activities with family and friends, a weekend trip, or just a fun activity. Make your time away from work count! TOP

For working professionals, getting caught in the work/life balance trap will always be an ongoing challenge. Careful planning and execution is the advice from those who have found balance in both career and home life. As one respondent remarked, "most people could take steps to improve their own situation without drastic changes, but it does require personal effort."

For additional career information and job search strategies visit careerwomen.com, diversitysearch.com, mbacareers.com/ and CareerExposure.com.


Source: Career Exposure Network