EFFECT OF WORK-LIFE BALANCE ON EMPLOYEE RETENTION OF EGERTON UNIVERSITY ACADEMIC STAFF, NAKURU COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

This study investigated the effect of work-life balance on employee retention among academic staff at Egerton University in Nakuru County, Kenya. Specifically, it examined the impact of flexible working arrangements on employee retention. The research employed a causal research design with a sample size of 202 academic staff members, determined using the Taro Yamane formula. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and linear regression analysis. The findings revealed a strong positive correlation (R = 0.863) between flexible working arrangements and employee retention, with flexible working arrangements explaining 74.5% of the variance in employee retention. The study found that aspects such as flexible teaching schedules, work setups that boost improvement, and arrangements that enhance job satisfaction and reduce job stress significantly contribute to employee retention. However, the research also highlighted areas of concern, particularly the lack of flexibility in granting time off for personal matters. The study concludes that implementing flexible working policies can significantly enhance employee retention among academic staff. These findings contribute to the growing body of literature on work-life balance and employee retention in higher education institutions, particularly in the Kenyan context