The Influence of Work-Life Balance on Employees’ Performance in the Banking Industry: A Case of Commercial Banks Operating in Mwanza City

Abstract

Purpose: the purpose of the present study was to investigate the influence of work-life balance on employee performance within the commercial banking sector of Mwanza City, Tanzania. The study intended to achieve three specific objectives focusing on examining: the effect of flexible working arrangements on employees’ performance, the effect of leave policies on employees’ performance and the effect of social life on employees’ performance.

Methodology: the study deployed a quantitative approach where data was collected by using a structured questionnaire. Simple random sampling was used to obtain respondents. The study comprised 120 employees from 21 commercial banks located in Mwanza City. Data analysis was done using ANOVA and linear regression analysis.

Findings: The findings provide sufficient evidence to support the claim that flexible working arrangements, leave policy and social life significantly impact workers’ performance, it has positive effects on the organization and may lower non-attendance, and upgrade employee well-being and prosperity.    

Originality: The study addresses a pertinent topic on the need for work-life balance for improved performance, given the present day’s pressure of work and family/social life. If employees are not able to fully enjoy their family/social life are unlikely to deliver in workplaces. Conversely, if employees are not working and earning enough at work places are unlikely to meet their family/social demands hence, living a stressful life and consequently poor performance. Thus, flexible work arrangements could be an option in an attempt to meet this work-life balance.