Work life balance and career progression of female workers at ministry of gender, children and social protection

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to examine the effect of work life balance (WLB) on career progression of female workers at Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP), Ghana. The role scarcity theory by Goode (1960) was used to underpin the study. Quantitative approach and both descriptive and the explanatory research design were used to guide the study. A sample size of 108 was randomly sampled out of 144 female employees for the analysis. The research instrument used was questionnaire. Frequencies and percentage count tables were used to analyse the demographic data from the respondents; mean and standard deviation and regression analysis were used to analyse the research questions. The study found that management do not understand family issues of female staff well and this led to their lower job satisfaction, dedication and commitment to work. The study again found that career progression of women at MoGCSP is favourable such that the female staff are able to progress in their career and their jobs set the foundation for them to realise of their career goals. Lastly, it was found that work life balance practices have a significant effect on career progression of female workers such as attaining career goals; development of professional ability; speed in promotion; as well as a growing salary. Overall, based on the findings, it can be concluded that work life balance practice is a good predictor of career progression of female workers at MoGCSP. It was recommended that management should put measures in place to enable them build their career by offering professional training and invest in personal development of their staff.