Male CEOs have an opportunity to change the culture at their workplace for the better – not only for their employees, but also for their company’s profit margins. If you are a male CEO who wants to bring about this change, read on for key tips from those who have done it successfully, with examples of companies who have put their money where their mouth is.
Bring harmony to your professional and personal life
Male CEOs have the opportunity to improve work-life balance in their companies, something that is often a problem, says Damon Becnel. Studies show that companies with more female employees tend to have better work-life balance. One factor for this difference is that women are more likely to take on caregiving tasks at home. Therefore, they understand firsthand how important it is to combine work and home life at the same time.
By adopting policies that promote work-life balance, male CEOs can help themselves and their companies. For example, they can offer flexible working hours, child care and paid parental leave, which will not only attract workers, but also help them retain them.
Advocate for flexible work arrangements
Work arrangements that allow employees to work from home or change their schedules on a whim are becoming increasingly popular, especially among millennials. Male CEOs should encourage their companies to offer these types of arrangements. This shows staff that they are valued and that the company is committed to developing a balanced work environment.
Encourage employees to take time off
Encouraging employees to take vacation days is one way to create a more balanced work environment. This can be accomplished by giving employees extra paid vacation days or allowing them to work remotely when they need rest.
Set a good example
CEOs, especially male CEOs, should take advantage of flexible work arrangements and be open about the importance of balancing work and life outside of work. In this way, they can set an example for others in the company and contribute to a more balanced culture in general.
Encourage physical activity
Another aspect that deserves attention is fitness. CEOs should encourage their employees to stay active and healthy by offering fitness memberships or organizing company-wide fitness competitions.
Organize social events
Social events are a great way to build a sense of community within a company. They can also help reduce stress levels and promote work-life balance. Male CEOs should make sure they organize social events that everyone in the company can attend.
Two excellent examples of a well-balanced work environment
Amazon
Amazon, for example, offers its employees tremendous benefits such as flexible work hours and unlimited vacation days. It also allows its employees to work from home when they want to take a break.
Google has managed to find a good work-life balance for its employees. Some benefits offered by the technology company include flexible work hours, on-site childcare and free food. Google also allows its employees to set aside 20% of their time for new projects outside of their regular duties.
Promote views of balance
There is still a negative connotation around work-life balance, especially in male-dominated industries. Male CEOs like Damon Becnel can help reduce this stigma by advocating the importance of work-life balance. They should also implement policies and initiatives that promote work-life balance in their organizations. Employees, especially millennials, increasingly value work-life integration.
What women business leaders will contribute?
While male CEOs are excellent at creating a balanced work culture, female CEOs should not be underestimated. Often, women CEOs are more attuned to the needs of their employees and are better able to implement policies that support work-life balance.
Female CEOs are also more likely to offer flexible work arrangements and encourage vacation time. Moreover, they also tend to be more involved in social activities and fitness initiatives and recognize the importance of these pursuits in reducing stress levels and promoting a healthy work-life balance.
Summary
A company’s success depends on its employees, so a healthy work environment is essential. Male CEOs can help create a balanced work culture by leading by example, encouraging vacation, hosting social gatherings and supporting fitness efforts. Female CEOs also contribute a lot to creating a healthy corporate culture. They can help male executives reduce the stigma around work-life balance by speaking out about its importance and encouraging everyone to have a more balanced workplace.
