Quality of life in the high tech sector: Excellence in work and non-work

The present study explored the relationship between excellence in job performance and excellence in quality of life. Twelve interviews were conducted; seven men and five women participated in the study. Participants represented a wide range of employment levels from high tech employee to members of the executive group (vice-presidents). Inductive analysis of transcripts revealed that all participants used the term balance in their definition of quality of life. When asked to define balance, the following domains were included in the comments of all participants: (1) family; (2) work; (3) physical fitness. Factors contributing to quality of life were listed as (1) family / relationships; (2) physical activity and leisure; (c) making valuable contributions at work. Prerequisites for achieving quality of life and job performance excellence included: (1) having a commitment to a balanced lifestyle; (2) having supportive relationships; (3) participating in physical activity; (4) being highly effective in work roles. Participants believed that increasing the quality of life of employees would increase long-term productivity and performance levels. Recommendations were made by participants on how to improve the quality of life of employees