Mother’s Day is approaching and a recent survey conducted by Robert Half revealed that more than half of working Canadian moms are worried about the balance between work and family in the year 2024. The survey showed that 68 percent of working mothers are concerned about losing flexibility in their jobs. Many working mothers, like Tara Parry, feel that having flexibility is essential in order to fulfill both their work responsibilities and parenting duties. The COVID-19 pandemic has allowed many working mothers to spend more time with their children while working from home, but as companies begin to bring employees back to the office, this flexibility may be in jeopardy. Parry stated that if flexibility was taken away from her, she would have to explore other options.
In addition to concerns about losing flexibility, the survey found that 53 percent of mothers reported feeling “stuck.” Executive leadership coach Carrie Gallant explained that this feeling stems from the conflict between wanting to maintain certain benefits and gifts while seeing employers insist on returning to the office. Gallant emphasized the importance of having a conversation between employers and employees to find a mutually beneficial solution. While flexibility is a significant factor, 32 percent of working mothers are also hoping for a promotion this year. However, some may hesitate to ask for a promotion out of fear that it could impact their job security. It is important for employees to advocate for themselves and demonstrate the value they bring to the organization.
Despite the challenges faced by working mothers, Parry acknowledged that balancing work and parenting can be a daily struggle. She encouraged mothers who feel overwhelmed or unsatisfied in their current roles to explore other opportunities. Parry mentioned that sometimes it is necessary to evaluate if the issues can be resolved in the current position or if it is time to make a change. Seeking new opportunities may lead to a better balance between work and family life. Climie, another expert, emphasized that employees should not be afraid to ask for what they want, including pay increases, as it is an important aspect of employer-employee relations. By showcasing the value they bring to the organization, employees can have productive conversations about their career growth.
Overall, the survey results highlight the challenges faced by working mothers in balancing their professional and personal lives. The COVID-19 pandemic brought about increased flexibility for many working mothers, but as companies transition back to traditional office settings, concerns about losing this flexibility have arisen. It is crucial for employers and employees to communicate and collaborate on finding solutions that work for both parties. Additionally, working mothers should not hesitate to advocate for themselves, whether it be for flexibility or career advancement opportunities. Evaluating one’s current situation and exploring other options may lead to a more satisfying balance between work and family responsibilities. Ultimately, finding the right balance is essential for the well-being of working mothers and their families.
