Ikilale Moderates Work Engagement, Perceived Organizational Support, Flexible Work Arrangement on Work Life Balance (Study at Private Universities in Gorontalo Province)

Abstract

Background and Objectives: This study aims to analyze the impact of  Work Engagement (X1), Perceived Organizational Support (X2), and Flexible Work Arrangement (X3) on Work-Life Balance (Y2) with Ikilale Values (Y1) as a moderating variable among female lecturers at Private Universities (PTS) in Gorontalo Province. In this study, 219 female lecturers from private universities in Gorontalo Province were included to examine the relationships between variables using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The results showed that Work Engagement (X1) has a positive and significant effect on Work-Life Balance (Y2), with Ikilale Values (Y1) moder-ating the relationship, strengthening the connection. Additionally, the study found that Perceived Organizational Support (X2) has a positive but non-significant effect on Work-Life Balance (Y2). This suggests that although lecturers feel supported by the organization, the support is not strong enough to significantly change their work-life balance. However, Flexible Work Arrangement (X3) was found to have a positive and significant effect on work-life balance by providing the flexibility to adjust work time and location according to personal and professional needs. The study also found that Ikilale Values (Y1) play an important role in moderating the relationship between these variables. Local cultural values, such as resilience, responsibility, and discipline, contribute to better role management between work and personal life. These findings emphasize the importance of implementing flexible work policies supported by local culture in achieving better work-life balance for female lecturers in private universities in Gorontalo.