WORK LIFE BALANCE AND EMPLOYEE RETENTION ON EXPERIENCE OF WOMEN EMPLOYEES IN APPAREL MANUFACTURING ORGANIZATIONS IN KANDY DISTRICT (SPECIAL REFERENCE TO KANDY INDUSTRIAL ZONE IN PALLEKELE)

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of work-life balance practices on employee retention among women in apparel manufacturing organizations in Kandy district, Sri Lanka. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with a sample of 302 women employees using a structured questionnaire. The study employed descriptive statistics, correlation, and multiple regression analyses to examine the relationships between work-life balance dimensions (job security, working hours, leave policy, workload, and training) and employee retention. The findings revealed generally high levels of perceived work-life balance and retention intentions among the surveyed women. Significant positive correlations were found between all work-life balance dimensions and retention. The regression analysis showed that work-life balance practices collectively explained 65.8% of the variance in retention, with employee training, working hours, job security and leave policy having significant positive effects, while workload had a negative impact. The study highlights the importance of comprehensive work-life balance policies in promoting the well-being and retention of women employees in the apparel sector. The findings have implications for apparel firms seeking to design effective retention strategies and for policymakers aiming to create an enabling environment for women's employment. The study recommends prioritizing employee training, reasonable and flexible work arrangements, job security, and supportive leave policies to enhance retention. Future research can explore the role of orgartizational culture, adopt longitudinal designs, and incorporate qualitative insights to further advance knowledge in this field.