Flexible work conditions help overqualified employees achieve work-life balance

Overqualified employees—those with more skills or knowledge than their job requires—can achieve a better work-life balance when given the right workplace conditions, according to new research from The University of Western Australia (UWA). Spouses of these employees report a more balanced family life when they have greater control over their schedules and work in non-competitive environments.

The study, co-authored by Associate Professor Aleksandra Luksyte from UWA’s Business School and published in Personnel Psychology, examined the work-life relationships of two groups: hospital employees and their spouses, and employees in an IT company and their spouses. The research identified key factors that contribute to work-life balance, including flexible start and finish times and a workplace culture that rewards performance based on clear standards rather than internal competition.

“Overqualified employees with greater schedule control can complete their work with relative ease due to their high skill levels and abilities, and this results in more free time for attending to their family needs,” said Associate Professor Luksyte.

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Beyond having extra time, these employees were also found to use their surplus skills to support their families—whether by providing emotional support, helping with school drop-offs, volunteering at school events, or managing household projects. Their ability to contribute more at home led to improved experiences for their spouses both at home and at work.

The research highlighted the benefits of offering flexible work arrangements to overqualified employees rather than letting their potential go underutilised. By creating an environment that values work-life balance and minimises unnecessary competition, organisations can unlock the full potential of their workforce while fostering a more engaged and satisfied employee base.