Examining the Influence of Work-life Balance Initiatives on Employee Retention: A Comprehensive Literature Review

Abstract

Aims: This study aimed to conduct a review of work-life balance (WLB) initiatives of employees and the factors that contribute to employees’ retention intentions.  This study also aimed to explore the influence of WLB on employees’ retention intentions. Study Design: This study is qualitative in nature, employing the literature review approach.  Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted in Bacolod City for a span of two months (February-March 2025). Methodology: This study utilized a qualitative method employing the literature review approach, which provided a structured approach to research, analyzing, and synthesizing existing scholarly work on the topic. Results: Three major themes emerged from this analysis: work-life balance initiatives of employees, retention intentions, and influence of work-life balance initiatives on retention intentions.  Under the work-life balance initiatives, the following sub-themes emerged: importance of work-life balance of employees, impact or organizational culture and policies on work-life balance, impact of work-life balance on employee well-being and productivity, technological advancements and remote work, and diverse employee needs and customization of strategies.  Under the retention intentions, the following sub-themes emerged: motivation factors impacting retention, organizational culture and environment, role of career development and learning opportunities, and implications of corporate social responsibility on employee retention.  Sub-themes that emerged from influence of work-life balance on employee retention intention include definition of work-life balance, work-life balance and job satisfaction, organizational strategies for promoting work-life balance, barriers to achieving work-life balance, and future directions for research. Conclusion: The analysis reveals a strong connection between work-life balance (WLB) and employee retention intention. As organizations navigate the complexities of modern work environments, prioritizing WLB has emerged as a strategic imperative. Employees who perceive a healthy balance between their professional and personal lives exhibit higher job satisfaction, increased loyalty, and a reduced propensity to leave their organizations.