Working to live or living to work?

Add comment January 8th, 2008

Think you’re overworked? Well, you’re not alone.

Most executives and professionals say they can’t escape their work demands, and log hours on their commutes, at night and even weekends, according to a poll by a major search firm. Seventy percent of the 500 polled by MRINetwork said their company does not do a good job of letting them balance their work and personal lives.

In fact, 65 percent said they worked “frequently” after hours, while 19 percent worked “sometimes,” 9 percent “occasionally” and only 5 percent said “never.”

While working like sled dogs may be common to mid- and upper-level managers, this workflow pattern is fading as as baby boomers head toward retirement. Researchers say Generations X and Y are often more interested in balancing work and personal pursuits than “getting ahead,” like their parents.

“This will inevitably lead to a reevaluation of the performance requirements of individual positions within many companies, especially as the younger generation moves into higher management levels,” said Michael Jalbert, MRINetwork president, in a written statement.