If you’ve ever asked: is it possible to thrive at work without sacrificing life outside of it? The answer is a resounding yes. With the right strategies, role selection, and employer, you can carve out a fulfilling career without letting work take over. Here’s how to make it happen—no matter your industry, role, or career stage—along with practical steps to find employers who truly support your work life balance.
why work-life balance matters
According to Randstad Australia’s 2024 Employer Brand Research, work-life balance is the top priority for Australian employees, with 41% of workers citing it as the primary reason they might leave their current job. For job seekers across Australia, the demand for roles that respect personal time and prioritise well-being is higher than ever.
Why? Because a balanced lifestyle allows you to bring your best self to work and enjoy a fulfilling personal life. It helps reduce stress, improve productivity, enhance creativity, and, importantly, prevents burnout. Employees with work-life balance report higher job satisfaction, stronger relationships, and better overall well-being. This balance is vital regardless of your job, role, or industry—whether you’re in construction, technology, healthcare, corporate or management.
benefits of achieving work-life balance
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reduced stress and burnout
Work-life balance lowers stress and keeps burnout at bay, enabling sustained productivity.
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improved health and well-being
Balance supports mental and physical health, allowing more time for exercise, sleep, and personal pursuits.
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greater job satisfaction
When work isn’t overwhelming, employees report higher satisfaction and engagement.
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enhanced creativity and focus
Time off helps the mind refresh, which boosts creativity and focus upon return to work.
strategies for achieving work-life balance
To achieve work-life balance in any role, use these strategies to set boundaries and manage your time more effectively:
- set boundaries: Avoid checking emails outside work hours and set clear expectations with your manager and team.
- prioritise tasks: Focus on high-impact activities, delegate where possible, and use productivity tools to stay on track.
- make time for breaks: Regular breaks improve focus and reduce stress. If your schedule is flexible, take a walk or spend a few minutes stretching.
- communicate needs openly: If workload or scheduling becomes challenging, speak with your manager to explore adjustments. Transparent communication helps address issues before they impact your well-being.
- consider flexibility: Many companies offer flexible work arrangements, including hybrid roles, remote work, and adaptable hours. Pursuing these options can help reduce commute stress and create time for personal needs.
finding a role that supports work-life balance
When job hunting, keep these three tips in mind to find roles that prioritise balance:
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read job descriptions carefully
Look for keywords like “flexible hours,” “remote work,” “work-life balance,” and “employee well-being.”
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research company culture
Many companies emphasise work-life balance in their values. Check employee reviews on sites like Glassdoor to gauge if the company lives up to these values. If you’re working with a specialist recruitment consultant, ask about the employer’s approach to flexibility, work-life balance, and wellness.
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look for roles with flexibility options
Industries like tech, finance, and consulting are increasingly offering part-time or job-sharing opportunities. For example, some banks provide flexible schedules to support work-life balance in high-stakes roles.
examples of balanced roles across industries
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tech jobs (e.g., Software Engineer or UX Designer)
The tech industry often leads the way in flexible work options, with many companies embracing remote work, hybrid models, and even flexible schedules to support work-life balance. For instance, a software engineer may have the option to work from home several days a week or set core hours that best suit their needs. Tech companies are increasingly focusing on employee wellness, with some offering additional mental health days and resources to help manage the demands of this high-paced field.
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finance jobs (e.g., Financial Analyst or Accountant)
Traditionally demanding, the finance sector is evolving to support work-life balance as firms recognise the benefits of employee well-being on performance. Many banks and financial services firms now offer roles with the option for hybrid work and compressed work weeks, especially for roles like financial analysts and accountants. Some progressive firms also implement “no meeting Fridays” or “quiet hours” for focused work, encouraging employees to manage their time effectively and reduce stress.
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healthcare jobs (e.g., Nurse or Healthcare Administrator)
Healthcare professionals often face long hours, but some hospitals now offer four-day work weeks or shift swapping to prevent burnout. If you’re in healthcare, seek hospitals that emphasise employee wellness programs and flexible shifts.
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corporate jobs (e.g., Marketing Manager or Financial Analyst)
Many corporate roles now include hybrid or remote work options. Marketing managers can benefit from flexible hours, allowing them to balance work with family or personal projects. Companies focused on balance typically promote flexible hours, work-from-home days, and provide wellness resources.
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construction jobs (e.g., Electrician or Construction Project Manager)
The construction industry may have demanding hours, but some companies are adopting four-day work weeks or staggered schedules to reduce fatigue. Look for employers with robust safety and wellness programs, as they are more likely to respect boundaries and promote well-being.
tips for finding work-life balanced employers
- research company policies: Check if companies have policies supporting work-life balance, such as remote work, compressed work weeks, or flexible hours.
- network and ask for insights: Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. They can give insight into the company culture and how well they prioritise balance.
- use specialised job boards: Some job boards allow you to filter by flexible, part-time, or remote work options, helping you find roles that support balance.
- look for employee testimonials: Companies that truly prioritise work-life balance often highlight employee testimonials and stories on their websites or social media channels.
- work with a specialist recruitment consultant: Partnering with a specialist recruitment consultant can help streamline your job search. Experienced consultants understand which employers prioritise work-life balance and can match you with roles that align with your lifestyle goals. By working closely with a consultant, you gain access to a curated selection of roles with companies known for their supportive, balanced work environments.
final thoughts
Achieving work-life balance is about finding a role and a company that respects your boundaries, offers flexibility, and understands that life is more than work. By taking control of your schedule, setting clear boundaries, and choosing employers who value balance, you can carve out a fulfilling career while maintaining a rewarding personal life. As a jobseeker, prioritise work-life balance to not only thrive in your role but also in every other part of life.
To find a job that supports a healthier work-life balance, reach out to Randstad. We’re here to help you find opportunities that align with your personal and professional goals.
Felicity Empson
hr director, randstad australia
As Randstad’s Human Resources Director, Felicity drives organisational effectiveness, contributes to the company’s strategy, attracting the best talent in the industry, and establishing effective, modern policies for Randstad’s workforce. Randstad has been supporting people and organisations in realising their true potential, helping find the best permanent and contracting talent across industries, for nearly 30 years.
