How Accessible Work–Life Policies Reduce Absenteeism and Boost Performance

Описание: The video examines why well-intentioned employee benefit policies often fail to reduce absenteeism or boost performance. In Spain, absenteeism has reached 5.3%, harming productivity and workplace harmony. Many firms introduce work–life balance measures such as remote work or flexible hours, yet research shows that merely having these policies “on paper” has little real effect. The key issue is perceived accessibility: employees may fear that using these benefits will make them seem less committed or harm promotion prospects. This fear turns progressive initiatives into “paper tiger policies”—impressive but ineffective. When employees genuinely feel safe to use such benefits, stress and work–family conflict decline, improving emotional wellbeing and physical health. Healthier, less-stressed employees are more present, engaged, and productive. Thus, policies do not directly enhance performance; they serve as catalysts for wellbeing, and wellbeing drives better results. The real solution lies in organisational culture: leaders must model the use of these benefits and foster psychological safety, showing that balance and wellbeing are signs of strength, not weakness. By embedding trust and support, companies can transform symbolic policies into genuine tools for health, motivation, and productivity.


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