When employees are able to successfully manage family life and responsibilities, they are free to perform to maximum potential at work. More and more companies today are realizing the importance of balance between work and family life and are implementing programs to help their employees succeed at home, directly influencing their success at work.
Through the implementation of an EAP program, a company can have dramatic influence on the success of its employees by extending helpful programs and services, not only directly to its workforce, but also to employee families. When an employee’s family member seeks help through a well-designed EAP program, the entire family, including the employee, benefits. The employee is then free to perform well at work, without worrying about the unresolved problems of a loved one. Furthermore, that employee can also seek assistance from the EAP program for coping with problems at home.
In addition to the EAP program, a Work Life program can further reduce and prevent family issues and help employees and their families to simplify home life. Work Life programs can assist employee families with everything from choosing child care to dealing with financial and legal issues. A Work Life program that provides family services can even assist employees with locating child care for sick dependents, reducing both absenteeism and stress.
Sometimes it is hard for employees and supervisors to fully understand what an EAP is and does. HR World has an excellent description of the process for those folks who are already in need of assistance and for supervisory referrals. It is important however, to realize that EAPs are available for more than assisting those already experiencing serious problems. Effective EAPs should also provide resources for individuals that may prevent longer term problems.
Tags: EAP, Employee Assistance Program
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