Beyond Carnations: Empowering Working Moms on Mother's Day (and Every Day)
by Mentoring Matters
4 minutes read
As we approach Mother's Day, it's hard not to reflect on the incredible journey of working mothers. These resilient individuals balance the demands of their careers with the all-consuming role of motherhood—a feat that never ceases to inspire. But this inspiration often comes with an unspoken acknowledgment of the struggles they face in the workplace. It's a narrative familiar to many, including myself—who has navigated the tightrope of professional aspirations and familial duties.
As a woman leader and an advocate for workplace equality, I have seen first-hand how vital it is to support working mothers. This year, let's shift the focus from pre-made breakfast to fostering a workplace that truly supports working mothers – because empowered moms are successful moms, and successful moms are the backbone of any thriving organization.
Empathy: The Missing Piece
The challenges working mothers face are well documented: juggling childcare, societal pressures, and the ever-present guilt of not being "enough" anywhere. But what's often missing is empathy. We need leaders who understand these struggles, not dismiss them. Imagine the difference it would make if a manager simply acknowledged a late arrival due to a sick child with a kind word, instead of a raised eyebrow.
Empathy from leadership and colleagues can lead to more flexible work arrangements, like remote work options or adjustable hours, which are not concessions but rather smart business practices that honour the contributions of working mothers. These practices aren't just beneficial for mothers; they create a culture that values all employees' needs, promoting a more inclusive and diverse workplace.
Building a Culture of Inclusion through Coaching
Empathy is a muscle that needs exercise. Here are two ways to build a more empathetic and inclusive environment for working mothers:
Coaching Programs: Invest in leadership coaching programs that specifically address unconscious bias and equip managers with the tools to support working mothers. These programs can foster open communication, allowing mothers to voice their needs and find solutions that work for both them and the company.
Mentorship and Support Groups: Create mentorship programs or internal support groups for working mothers. This allows them to connect with colleagues who understand their unique challenges, share best practices, and create a sense of community.
Coaching is not just a tool for career advancement but an essential support system that can guide working mothers through the intricacies of their dual roles. Coaching programs tailored to their needs can help them navigate career progression, work-life balance, and even post-maternity re-entry into the workforce. These programs provide them with strategies to manage their responsibilities effectively while also advancing their career goals.
Beyond Flexibility: Supporting Success
Let's move beyond flexibility as the sole solution. While flexible work arrangements are crucial, they're just one piece of the puzzle. Here are some additional ways to empower working mothers:
Support for Childcare: Explore childcare subsidies or on-site day care options to alleviate a significant burden.
Recognition and Advancement: Recognize and reward the unique skillsets working mothers bring - time management, resourcefulness, and the ability to prioritize.
It's not enough to implement policies; we must also build a culture that champions these values. This means coaching managers to lead with empathy, encouraging open dialogue about challenges, and recognizing the contributions of working mothers. We must also advocate for paternal leave policies that promote shared parenting responsibilities, alleviating some of the burdens from mothers.
Tangible Steps Forward: As leaders, we must ensure our actions speak as loudly as our policies. This includes:
• Regularly reviewing workloads and deadlines to ensure they are reasonable.
• Providing resources for mental health and stress management tailored to the needs of working mothers.
• Celebrating the successes of working mothers in our teams to set a precedent for recognition and appreciation.
It's Not Just About Moms
By creating a supportive environment for working mothers, we benefit everyone. A happier, more balanced workforce leads to increased productivity, employee retention, and a more positive company culture. Organizations that invest in making the workplace more inclusive for mothers see benefits in employee loyalty, diverse perspectives, and a broader talent pool.
As a woman in leadership, my message is clear: let's use coaching and empathy as our tools, and let's commit to making the corporate world a place where working mothers don't just survive but lead and succeed.
As we celebrate Mother’s Day, let’s commit to being more than just thankful for the mothers around us. Let’s be proactive in our support, creating environments where they can thrive. Share this blog with your network to spread the word on the importance of empathy and coaching in supporting working mothers. Together, we can forge a path that allows every mother in our workforce to flourish.
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