THE MEDIATING ROLE OF WORK-LIFE BALANCE IN THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN WORKLOAD AND EMPLOYEE PRODUCTIVITY

Abstract

This study aims to examine the effect of workload on employee productivity with work-life balance (WLB) as a mediating variable. The research was conducted on two companies—PT. Refo Digital Creative and PT. Uba Uhud International—both of which face challenges related to high workload and work-life imbalance. A total of 82 respondents were selected using purposive sampling based on specific criteria. Data were collected through a closed-ended questionnaire using a Likert scale and analyzed using simple linear regression and the Sobel test for mediation analysis. The results indicate that workload has a significant negative effect on employee productivity, as excessive workload leads to physical and mental stress that reduces performance and motivation. Workload also negatively affects WLB by reducing rest time and personal life quality. Conversely, WLB has a positive effect on productivity, as employees with a balanced work-life condition tend to be more efficient, motivated, and accurate in task completion. WLB is proven to fully mediate the relationship between workload and productivity. These findings highlight the importance of proportional workload management and organizational support for employee well-being. Companies are encouraged to implement policies such as flexible work hours, mental health programs, and supportive environments. The study reinforces the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model, emphasizing the critical role of balancing job demands with adequate resources like WLB in enhancing productivity and employee well-being.