- Image via Wikipedia
Mommy Friendly Work Environments
1. A big thank you to businesses offering work environments that make it easier for new and seasoned moms to return to the workforce. Shorter work weeks with off peak hours can save the mom trying to balance motherhood with a career. Many households are comprised of two parents both who work outside of the home. Many mothers work out of necessity and many are single parents. In the case of single mothers the need for balance and understanding is more profound.
2. Expect the Unexpected
The preferred work environment welcomes optimal success and supports mothers who may request unscheduled, yet needed breaks from work to handle doctor’s appointments and school events for their children. There is no way for the working mother to predict all the things that can wreak havoc on her schedule, but she can have a backup plan.
Offering to swap schedules with other moms is sometimes an option a good boss will work with you. If you’re doing your job, you want to keep it. Open honest communication in as much advance time to your supervisor is both courteous and professional.
3. Pay it Forward
As a mom seeking a work friendly environment you can sweeten the pot by being the consummate business professional. Offering to assist other co-workers in areas in which you excel is no sweat off your brow and you earn points for being a team player.
4. Dealing with Complaining Co-workers
You will learn early on that not everyone thinks you deserve a Mommy Friendly Work Environment. They may be inclined towards cats or plants and not babies, or first graders. If you do your job well, and are a positive member of the team your work and attitude will speak for itself.
5. Keeping it Positive
When exiting do so gracefully noting to the employer that a Mommy Friendly Work Environment was helpful.
