Father sits in front of laptop with child on his lap
Leadership & HR
21.10.2025 Ifenna Ekezie 190

Shaping work-life balance: Impulses for HR

The latest results of the future study on the compatibility of work and family (2025) show: Working mothers and, increasingly, fathers are experiencing high mental double burdens and therefore expect specific support from their employers and a proactive management culture that exemplifies and enables compatibility.  

In order to strengthen the motivation, health and loyalty of your employees in the long term and remain competitive, it is therefore not enough to simply offer a few support services to improve the work-life balance.

"What is needed is a clear corporate strategy that firmly anchors the issue of reconciliation in the corporate culture and supports managers in developing individual solutions with their team members, thus ensuring the active participation of employees in the selection of measures and offers." - Dr. Daniel Erler, Head of Corporate Communications pme Familienservice Group 

What you can expect in this article

Key facts from the Future Study on Compatibility 2025 

In summer 2025, together with Väter gGmbH, the VereinbarkeitsIndex and the Bundesverband Vereinbarkeit, we surveyed more than 1,000 working mothers and fathers from companies with over 1,000 employees as part of a representative FORSA study. The aim of the study was to make their different perspectives and needs visible and to derive concrete recommendations for action for companies, politics and society. 

The core results: 

  • 76% of parents mainly share childcare - a clear change in society. 
  • 51% of mothers and 41% of fathers still feel a heavy mental burden - the decisive factor here is the support they receive from their employer: only 35% of the parents surveyed who felt supported by their employer stated that they were mentally burdened. 
  • 42% of parents consider childcare services to be particularly relevant, but only 21% of employers offer them. 
  • 78% of women and 70% of men see the role of the manager as decisive for the actual use of family-friendly measures. 
  • 45% of the mothers surveyed stated that they did not aspire to a leadership role due to family demands and social expectations. 

To the future compatibility study

From study to action: How HR can actively support cultural change

Companies must see compatibility as an integral part of their corporate culture. HR plays a central role in this.  

Through regular, transparent communication and the targeted involvement of managers, they can ensure that health and support services are made known and visible within the company so that employees are informed and actively make use of them. 

"Reconciling family and career presents parents with a variety of challenges. We therefore recommend that employers provide their employees with a wide range of tailored support services for parents and children. It is particularly important that companies communicate their offers continuously and take the needs of employees into account." - Dr. Daniel Erler, Head of Corporate Communications pme Familienservice Group 

1. transform leadership culture - establish compatibility as a leadership issue 

Managers play a key role in determining whether a family-conscious corporate culture is practiced. They must actively promote flexible working models and support for family challenges. As our study on work-life balance shows, 78% of parents see the behavior of their managers as decisive for the use of family-friendly offers. 

However, managers often do not feel sufficiently supported by their companies in promoting their employees' work-life balance. According to our survey, 61% of female managers and 51% of male managers see an urgent need to catch up in this area. 


 

Practical recommendation: Managers can receive targeted support through training and seminars that promote empathetic communication, flexible workplace design and dealing with individual needs. In addition, regular workshops, coaching and collegial advice are useful to strengthen managers in their role and make everyday life family-friendly. 

2. recognize mental stress and relieve employees in a targeted manner

Mental health is a key factor for sustainable employee performance. The study shows a clear difference: only 35% of parents who experience support from their employer feel mentally stressed. Without support, the figure is 62%. 

Practical recommendation: As part of holistic health management, preventative measures such as mindfulness training and health checks as well as confidential advice and coaching services can be provided. Training for mental first aiders also enables early support in the event of mental stress. 

3. needs-oriented family services at the heart of reconciliation 

In addition to an active corporate culture, flexible and quality-assured childcare options are needed. The survey revealed a large discrepancy between the needs of parents and the support options actually provided: Although most companies now offer flexible working time models, part-time and mobile working, many employees feel that these measures are not sufficient. 

In the study, 42% of parents cite high-quality childcare as a decisive factor in reconciling family and career. 


 

Practical recommendation: The options for needs-oriented family services are diverse and can range from one-off support services such as vacation or emergency care to booking places to comprehensive childcare concepts. Individual advice services for parents as well as networking and information platforms can provide additional relief. 

Practical help for parents in everyday working life 

In addition to a family-friendly corporate culture, specific support services for employees with children are crucial. Our wide range of parent & child services - from childcare to parenting advice - provide effective relief for families in their everyday lives.

 

Practical examples from our cooperation partners: 

Company day care: At Orthomolinis, Orthomol employees have a total of nine childcare places available for toddlers aged between six months and three years. Pedagogically trained specialists look after the children from 7:00 am to 3:30 pm. The company's day care service is offered in cooperation with pme Familienservice . 

In-house vacation programs:Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf and the Bertelsmann Stiftung, in cooperation with pme Familienservice , offer in-house vacation programs to relieve parents during the vacation season. Depending on requirements, the duration of the vacation care can be arranged flexibly. A varied program of creative and application activities is put together that is tailored to the different needs of children and young people. 

Thinking about compatibility when advertising jobs - how companies can score points in job offers

The latest analysis by the Bertelsmann Stiftung has shown that Family friendliness is too rarely communicated in job advertisements. Only around 16% of job offers contain family-friendly information. Although flexible working hours are advertised more frequently (approx. 38%), family-friendly offers are missing or not visible, especially in male-dominated professions. 

This means for companies: Family-friendly offers must not only be created, but also actively and visibly communicated in recruiting . In this way, new skilled workers can be recruited in a targeted manner and traditional role models can be broken down at the same time. 

Recommendations for successfully anchoring reconciliation measures in the company 

The following practical and proven measures are recommended to anchor reconcilability in the company sustainably and effectively: 

  • Actively involve parents: Systematically survey needs in order to design targeted offers. 
  • Align services to needs: Select, measure and adapt measures to the actual needs of parents - and children. 
  • Train managers and raise awareness of compatibility issues and offers within the company. 
  • Communicate continuously: Make offers visible both internally (e.g. intranet, notices, information stands) and externally (e.g. on LinkedIn, in job advertisements). 
  • Share experiences: Use authentic reports from parents, because personal stories are more convincing than pure product advertising. 

"Reconciling work and family life is a key success factor for companies today. Only those who practise family-conscious management and have tailor-made offers can retain and motivate employees in the long term." - Dr. Daniel Erler, Head of Corporate Communications pme Familienservice Group

 

zero Coping with the symptoms of the menopause: Helpful tips

Cheerful middle-aged woman
Body & Soul
13.10.2025 Gabriele Strasser 3107

From brain fog to job stress: mastering the menopause

The menopause is a major turning point in a woman's life. Anna Kipp-Menke, systemic consultant, and Giannina Schmelling, certified nutritionist, have helpful tips on how to deal with common complaints.

In this article you can read:

What happens in the body during the menopause?

The menopause is an important phase of life that affects around 9 million women in Germany. The effects vary greatly: around a third experience severe symptoms, another third moderate symptoms and a third hardly any symptoms at all.

During this phase, the hormonal balance changes profoundly. This affects the whole body. Sleep disorders, hot flushes, mood swings, concentration problems and weight gain usually occur.

Important tip: Regular exercise supports the body and brain and can reduce symptoms.

When does the menopause begin and how long does it last?

The menopause can begin at the end of your 30s with the first hormonal changes - long before your period stops (menopause). The symptoms are initially caused by a lack of progesterone, which is the first hormone to fall during the menopause. Only then does the oestrogen level also fall. The hormonal changes can extend over a period of up to 15 years. A distinction is therefore made between premenopause, perimenopause and postmenopause.

What does the menopause do to the brain?

Many women suffer from concentration problems and "brain fog" during the menopause. The brain reacts to the falling oestrogen levels and adapts. This leads to temporary changes.

These neurological symptoms are similar to those in other phases of life such as puberty or pregnancy. The brain undergoes a kind of hormonal "update" and builds up new networks.

 What is the menopause?

The menopause is the time of the last menstruation and thus the end of fertility (ability to reproduce). On average, the menopause occurs at the age of 52.

Perimenopause is the transitional phase of the menopause that leads to menopause. During this time, the ovaries gradually begin to produce less oestrogen and progesterone, which can lead to physical and emotional changes. It begins on average at the age of 47.5. 

Why does the menopause make evolutionary sense?

The menopause is not a disease or a punishment. Many researchers believe it makes evolutionary sense. After all, "grandmothers play an important role" by supporting families and passing on knowledge. The menopause prepares women for this new task.

How to achieve a positive mindset during the menopause

How women experience the menopause depends very much on their attitude. Those who see this time as an opportunity rather than a crisis often experience more serenity and self-confidence.

This phase can be the start of new career paths, relationships or personal goals. A positive attitude promotes well-being and helps you to cope better with challenges.

Tips for a more relaxed menopause 

This helps against concentration problems and "brain fog"

  • Accept these symptoms as temporary.
  • Use trackers for important items and a fixed filing system.
  • Schedule difficult tasks for times when you can concentrate well.
  • Breathing exercises such as the 4-7-8 exercise bring clarity to your thoughts.
  • Avoid multitasking. Complete tasks one after the other.
  • To-do lists and calendars bring structure and calm.

Exercise: A miracle weapon against menopausal symptoms

Endurance and strength training, as well as balance and flexibility training, work wonders. They regulate weight, reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and improve sleep and mood. Even regular walks increase well-being.

Nutrition for the menopause

Many women gain weight during the menopause, especially around the abdomen. This increases the risk of illness. A diet rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals helps to support the metabolism and brain function.

How to avoid blood sugar spikes:

  • Give preference to unprocessed foods.
  • Eat a balanced diet with proteins, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates.
  • Take 4-5 hour breaks between meals. Recommended: 3 meals a day.

Recommended foods during the menopause

  • Omega-3-rich foods such as linseed oil, chia seeds, oily fish, walnuts and avocado have an anti-inflammatory effect.
  • Proteins in fish, eggs, pulses and milk help to maintain muscle mass.
  • Vegetables, wholemeal products and nuts promote digestion and stabilize blood sugar.
  • Drink at least 2 liters of water or unsweetened tea every day. Avoid coffee and alcohol, as they can increase hot flushes.

How to relieve hot flushes

  • Wear clothing made from natural fibers such as wool, silk or cotton.
  • Use the onion technique: several thin layers instead of one thick layer.
  • Prefer clothing that leaves your arms and neck free, e.g. vests.
  • Carry tissues, tissues or a bottle of cologne with you.
  • Speaking openly at work can help, e.g. "I'm going to take a quick break to freshen up.
  •  

"

The menopause is not the end, but a valuable opportunity for a new phase of life. Embrace the physical changes with love and use this time to get in touch with yourself." Anna Kipp-Menke, systemic counselor

 

r."


 

Menopause and job: why it's important to talk about it 

Women with menopausal symptoms often fall through the cracks at work. While the flu is reported as sick, women usually have to keep quiet about sleeping disorders, hot flushes or concentration problems and continue working as normal.

The "Menosupport" study (2023) shows that complaints influence career decisions and that women sometimes reduce their working hours or retire earlier.
Facts from the study:

  • 68 % would like to see more open communication.
  • 57% want more support from employers.
  • 24% reduce their working hours due to complaints.
  • 19 % are planning to retire early.

How employers can support women during the menopause

Promote open communication

An open atmosphere helps to break down taboos. This makes it easier for women to talk about complaints and get help.

Integrate company health management

Information on hormonal changes, nutrition and prevention provide women with targeted support.

Offering relief in everyday working life

  • Flexible working hours
  • Home office with stress
  • Relaxation rooms for short breaks
  • Simple sick notes

Enabling psychosocial support

  • Psychological counseling (company psychologists).
  • Coaching and mentoring specifically for women.
  • Courses on stress management, meditation, yoga, mindfulness.
  •  
 Book tip: The brain during the menopause by Dr. Lisa Mosconi

Dr. Mosconi encourages a new awareness of the menopause. She does not see it as the end, but as an important transition with opportunities for growth.
dtv Verlag, Munich, 2025

 

FAQ - frequently asked questions about the menopause

How long does the menopause last?

The menopause lasts around 4 to 7 years. Symptoms usually occur between the ages of 45 and 55.

Does exercise really help against complaints?

Yes, exercise improves mood, regulates weight, promotes sleep and can alleviate symptoms such as hot flushes.

What diet makes sense during the menopause?

A high-fiber, vitamin-rich and balanced diet with healthy fats and proteins supports the metabolism and the brain.

How can I relieve hot flushes quickly?

Wear light clothing, use the onion technique as recommended and cool yourself with refreshing towels or a fan if necessary.

Can my employer support me during the menopause?

Yes, open communication, flexible working hours, working from home, quiet rooms and psychosocial support are important offers of help.

Picture by Dr. Daniel Erler

Daniel Erler

Head of Corporate Communications (CCO)

Dr. Erler is an expert on company employee assisstance - Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) - and completed his doctorate in 2005 on the subject of work-life balance in Germany and Italy. In 2006, he began working as a strategic consultant and project manager for pme Familienservice GmbH.

Since 2012, Dr. Erler, as Head of Corporate Communications, has been responsible for the content and conceptual development of the pme Familienservice website, ensures communication between the editorial team and technology and coordinates the company-wide press and public relations work. Key aspects of this work include the design and implementation of the central company portals, the implementation of digital marketing campaigns and the introduction of a systematic multi-channel communication strategy.

As Managing Director of pme Familienholding GmbH, Dr. Erler also represents the founding shareholders in the group of shareholders of pme Familienservice GmbH.

Contact:

daniel.erler@familienservice.de