Work Life Balance and Employee Performance Among Administrative Staff at the University of Cape Coast: Moderating Such Nexus with Gender Differences

Abstract

The research aimed to examine the impact of work-life balance on employee performance among administrative staff at the University of Cape Coast, with a focus on the moderating role of gender differences. The specific objectives were to investigate the effect of work-life balance factors (flexible work arrangements, leave policies, dependent care assistance, and wellness and personal development programs) on employee performance, and to analyze how gender differences influence the relationship between work-life balance and employee performance. The study employed an explanatory research design using a quantitative approach. The sample size was determined as 269 participants based on the Krejcie and Morgan table, with a response rate of 81% (218 responses). Data analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS (version 26) and SmartPLS (version 3.3.3) software. The findings revealed that all dimensions of work-life balance had a significant positive influence on employee performance. Dependent care assistance and flexible work arrangements had the largest significant and positive impact on employee performance. Additionally, the study established that gender differences moderated the relationship between work-life balance and employee performance, specifically regarding the implementation of leave arrangements and dependent care assistance. Based on the results, the recommendation is that the design and implementation of work-life balance policies should be tailored to accommodate all employees without discrimination based on gender, as the university seeks to enhance employee performance. The policies should consider the diverse needs and preferences of both male and female administrative staff.