RBC’s corporate culture has always been one of “employees first.” As demographics in Canada have changed and continue to change, so too do the needs of our employees. We understand and acknowledge that employees require flexibility, particularly at certain points in their life cycle as they balance work and personal home commitments. As a result, we offer flexible hours and schedules for employees who may need a shortened or more condensed work week to attend to the needs of their loved ones.

In addition, RBC offers an omnibus employee care program, which includes professional and confidential counselling and support for employees and their family members. Beyond that, employees have access to fully qualified and accredited staff for things such as emergency backup elder care or child care. We also believe that it’s really important to foster a culture that allows for open dialogue between employees and their managers. In this way, employers can understand the employees’ perspective, and employees can be made aware of the different resources they have available to them, and when to take advantage of those flexible work arrangements. We believe that the COVID-19 pandemic has allowed us all to become much more open about these issues.

We want to emphasize that establishing a work culture of balance doesn’t necessarily need to come down to dollars and cents. We understand the correlation between engaged and productive employees and the benefits and supports offered by employers. Employees are more likely to stay in organizations where they feel they have purpose, and are fulfilled and supported. Instilling a culture of kindness, compassion and understanding is critical for our employees. And providing support beyond monetary benefits can really make a difference.

—Leanne Kaufman, President and CEO, RBC Royal Trust