The Effect of Perceived Social Support on Work-Life Balance and Work Engagement: A Case of Banking Sector

Abstract

In the globalizing world, organizations are focused on enhancing the quality of service or products to gain a competitive advantage, and they believe this can be achieved through high-performing employees. Therefore, the importance of dedicated employees who are committed to their work is increasing day by day. Individuals who are focused on their jobs will exhibit positive behaviors for their organizations, effectively contributing to achieving organizational goals. These individuals will not only fulfill their tasks according to standards but often surpass expectations by delivering performance beyond the norm. An employee's commitment to work is also linked to the ability to maintain a balanced private life. In order to achieve work-life balance, it is necessary to be able to manage work and private life simultaneously by setting priorities well. The social support received from the social environment is effective in achieving work-life balance and being engaged in work. Social support for employees typically includes various benefits, social services, educational opportunities, health facilities, and adjustments in working conditions. In this context, the purpose of this study conducted with participants who are bank employees is to determine the effect of perceived social support on work-life balance and work engagement. The sample of the study consists of 492 bank employees who work at different levels of a public capital bank serving Istanbul and who voluntarily participated in the study. According to the results of the study, both exploratory factor analysis (EFA) based on obtained data and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) conducted for the validity of the scales have shown favorable fit indices. In accordance with the measurement model, a structural aquation model (SEM) aimed at determining relationships was applied, and the results were evaluated. Correction analysis was also used in the study to identify relationships between main dimensions and sub-dimensions. According to the results obtained in the study, it is revealed that perceived social support has a significant negative effect on work-life balance and perceived social support has a significant positive effect on work engagement. The study concluded that as perceived social support increases in the banking sector, work-family and family-work conflicts will decrease, and work engagement will increase.