Are work-life policies and practices inclusive? Assessment and planning for more inclusion

Abstract

The AOM conference theme “Understanding the Inclusive Organization” puts front and center compositional changes in workforces that call into question traditional notions of employment. To that end, employer policies and programs have been changing to reflect the inclusive nature of the modern workforce. Extending our successful caucus session at the 2018 AOM meeting that focused on positioning work-life research beyond the work and family domains, we focus this year on fostering discussions on how organizations can take practical measures to encourage the pursuit of life domains beyond work and family (e.g., educational pursuits, community involvement, religious ceremonies). We will explore theoretical and practical implications related to developing and offering more inclusive work-life policies, programs, and practices, as well as the effects of this inclusivity on employees’ attitudes and outcomes.