Finding the perfect equilibrium between work and family life has always been a challenge for many individuals. It is a crucial factor that employees consider when seeking new job opportunities, especially those that offer remote work options. While companies may claim to prioritize work-life balance, the actions of individual leaders within the organization play a significant role in achieving this balance. A recent study by Russo et al. (2025) delved into the impact of team leaders supporting work-life balance on team performance and overall well-being.
The research conducted by Russo et al. involved a two-phase study that gathered data from 435 employees across 56 locations of a large Italian company. In the initial phase, employees were surveyed about their team leader’s support for work-life balance and the level of teamwork within their team. Simultaneously, managers were asked to report on their leadership styles and support for their team members. In the second phase, managers evaluated the performance of their respective teams.
The findings of the study revealed that when team members felt supported in managing their work-life needs, they exhibited a more collaborative and team-oriented approach. This shift in attitude positively impacted team performance. However, when managers focused solely on team performance without considering individual work-life balance needs, it resulted in emotional strain and potentially lower team performance.
In today’s modern workplace, achieving a healthy work-life balance is essential for employee satisfaction and productivity. Organizations must prioritize promoting work-life balance and supporting their employees in achieving this equilibrium. Here are some practical steps that companies can take to foster a positive work-life balance culture:
– Recognize the importance of addressing both the collective work-life balance needs of the team and individual needs.
– Encourage team bonding activities to foster a sense of unity and support within the team.
– Be mindful of the limits of support provided to team members to prevent emotional burnout and ensure sustainable performance.
The study by Russo et al. sheds light on the significance of a family-supportive team leader in creating a positive emotional climate and enhancing team performance. By emphasizing work-life balance and supporting employees’ personal well-being, organizations can cultivate a more engaged and productive workforce.
Reference:
Russo, M., Montani, F., Morandin, G., & Grenier, S. (2025). A family-supporting team leader: implications for the emotional climate and team performance. Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology, 98(E12563).
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