Balancing work and family (Parenthood)

In a nutshell: What's it all about?

A good work-life balance allows employees to meet their professional obligations and at the same time devote time and energy to family, children or voluntary work.

Opportunities and possibilities

ETH is strongly in favour of a positive balance between work and family life, so as to promote the well-being of its employees and support equal opportunities. Due to organisational and personal changes, it is sometimes necessary to adapt the organisation within the team accordingly. This flexibility pays off in the form of relaxed, motivated employees who are committed to their professional tasks and are loyal to ETH.

Get active: How to demonstrate good leadership

Discuss future possibilities with the prospective parent given the changed circumstances.
Keep in regular contact with the prospective parent and commence planning at an early stage.
Arrange for someone to deputise during the absence in good time.
Exercise your duty of care for your team member and ensure their job security.
Agree with the new parent arrangements for their return to work.
Ensure flexibility in work organisation by liaising with the entire team.

Self-reflection: Am I applying my social and leadership competencies effectively?

Acting responsibly:

Have I managed to retain well qualified staff in my team, find valuable solutions for ETH and thus make a contribution to positive societal developments?

Nurturing well-being:

Do I accommodate the needs of employees who have care duties?
How do I ensure the needs of my team are given consideration, as well as my own needs?

Living inclusivity:

How do I make sure employees who become parents are fully engaged in their career?
Do I offer parents enough flexibility to allow them a stress-free work-life balance?

In short: 5 steps to success

1. Conduct an initial interview 2. Coordinate team communication 3. Produce detailed planning, including deputisation arrangements if necessary 4. Cover reporting and administrative steps 5. Address the return to work and planning of working hours

Areas of responsibility: Roles

Manager: offers support, promotes flexibility and clarifies the future situation

Employee: provides their manager with information well in advance about future plans

HR: advises managers and future parents, as well as providing information about ETH offerings

SHE: gives advice concerning the work environment

Main responsibility

Manager and employee

Tools and tips immediately available

Additional learning nuggets

Other leadership situations

Overview of all leadership situations