Assessing the impact of remote working on the work–life balance of Hong Kong employees: a comparative study of caregivers and non-caregivers

Purpose This study aims to compare the work–life balance (WLB) of non-caregiver and caregiver employees by examining three key components: work–life interference (WLI), life satisfaction and family satisfaction. Additionally, it examines the varying impacts of organisational and individual factors on WLB across these employee groups. Design/methodology/approach This study employed a quantitative methodological approach. The target population of this study was employees adopting work-from-home arrangements in Hong Kong. The online survey was conducted from September to December 2020, and there were 1,320 valid responses in this study. Findings The results show that caregiver and non-caregiver employees experience WLB differently while working from home. Caregiver employees reported lower levels of WLB, perceived work-from-home support, organisational trust and individual work style, compared to non-caregiver employees. Caregiver employees experienced higher levels of WLI. Additionally, organisational and individual factors related to working from home have largely similar impacts on the WLB of caregiver and non-caregiver employees. The study indicates that organisational support for remote work enhances life and family satisfaction for non-caregivers and caregivers for children. However, it does not benefit caregivers of elderly people. Originality/value This study identifies the impacts of organisational and individual factors on caregiver and non-caregiver employees' WLB and provides the basis for human resource policy recommendations, with the intention of improving the WLB and quality of life of remote working employees, especially caregiver employees.