Audit Firm Commitment to Work-Life Balance: Supervisor Perceptions and Decisions Influencing Subordinate Career Progression

• In Event: Gender Issues Work/Life Balance

Abstract

WLB is and has been a concern of audit professionals for years given the long work-hours environment. Long work hours reduce WLB and can have negative effects for both individuals and organizations. Consequences include stress, fatigue, and other health issues as well as reduced job performance. Audit firms have committed to helping employees find WLB with the creation of work life balance and well-being programs. Such programs are intended to encourage employee recovery, which has been linked to increased job performance, improved health measures and improved retention. The purpose of this study is to determine whether the commitment to work-life balance is reflected in supervisor’s evaluation of subordinates for purposes of career progression. Funding for the research project described in this article was provided by the Center for Audit Quality. However, the views expressed in this article and its content are those of the authors alone and not those of the Center for Audit Quality.

Authors

• Timothy J Fogarty, Case Western Reserve University

• Mary B Sasmaz, Case Western Reserve University