Friday, May 10, 2024 What Workers Want More than ever, workers want jobs that provide a great work-life balance—and many are willing to relocate to get them Guide magazine How does Canada compare to other countries? We rank ninth, according to global HR platform provider Remote. Canada earned its place by scoring 67.91 out of 100 in the company’s Global Life-Work Balance Index. 10 Top Work-Life Balance Countries New Zealand (79.35) Spain (75.55) France (75.34) Australia (73.71) Denmark (73.67) Norway (73.05) The Netherlands (69.14) The United Kingdom (69.07) Canada (67.91) Brazil (67.73) 8 Key Factors Determining Ranking Statutory annual leave Minimum statutory sick-pay percentage Well-paid maternity leave Minimum wage Healthcare system Happiness index Average hours worked per week LGBTQ+ inclusivity Remote praised Canada for its diverse culture and robust economy. “Unlike its neighbours in the United States, the Canadian government offers a universal healthcare package, while Canada is also seen as the most LGBTQ+-friendly country in which to live and work,” the report said. The city of Toronto was singled out for accolades because of its attractiveness to workers from all over the world. “We ranked it as the number one international destination for working professionals due to its high quality of life, safety, and the multitude of leisure opportunities,” said Remote. “With half the city’s population made up of non-Canadians, Toronto is a welcoming destination for international visitors and residents.” The United States ranked a poor 53rd in the index, owing mainly to a lack of statutory annual leave and sick pay and the absence of a universal healthcare system. Poor work-life balance and lack of development opportunities are two big reasons people decide to leave a job, according to a 2023 survey from Kelly Services. New Zealand and Spain Lead the Pack New Zealand topped Remote’s list of the best countries for life-work balance with a score of 79.35. “Boasting a strong economy, New Zealand ranks at #1 in our list by scoring highly across a number of metrics, offering a generous statutory annual leave allowance (32 days), a high rate of sick pay (80 percent), and a government-funded universal healthcare system,” said Remote. “The country also offers the second-highest minimum wage of the places on our list.” Spain (75.55) came in at second, being cited for its “generous” statutory annual leave of 36 days and for having one of the shortest working weeks on average. “With a healthy economy boosted by a near-year-round influx of overseas tourists, Spain boasts some of the most beautiful and visitor-friendly cities in the world. Its capital, Madrid, ranked second in our guide to the best destinations for remote work,” said Remote. Sources: Canadian HR Reporter, Kelly Services, Remote.com You might be interested in Pinecrest Manor RNs Unanimously Ratify New Agreement 21 Mar 2025 Aecon Employees Secure Yearly Wage Increases with New Contract 21 Mar 2025 Elbows Down 17 Mar 2025 Gordon Ruth Employees Unanimously Ratify New Contract 14 Mar 2025