In the fast-paced world of recruitment, finding the right fit for a position is more than matching skills to a job description. It’s about understanding the unique qualities that different candidates bring to the table. Recently, I had an enlightening experience with a client hiring for a Senior Designer role that perfectly encapsulates this idea.
The Inquiry That Sparked a Conversation
The client asked a simple yet significant question: "Do you have any mums looking to return to work on your books?" This query piqued my interest, prompting me to ask why they were specifically interested in mothers returning to the workforce.
Their response was both refreshing and insightful: "Although mums typically require flexible working hours, they tend to be the hardest working, most reliable, and dedicated team members."
The Strengths of Returning Mums
This client’s perspective highlights an often-overlooked segment of the talent pool: mothers returning to work after a break. Here are some key strengths that mums bring to the workplace:
Exceptional Time Management: Balancing the demands of parenthood and a career requires superior organisational and time management skills. Mums often excel in prioritising tasks and managing their time efficiently, making them highly productive employees.
Strong Work Ethic: Many mums returning to work are highly motivated to prove their capabilities and contribute meaningfully. Their dedication and perseverance can translate into a strong work ethic, benefiting any team they join.
Reliability and Loyalty: Mums often value the opportunity to return to work and tend to demonstrate high levels of loyalty and reliability. They appreciate flexible work arrangements and are committed to making them work.
Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills: Parenthood often involves navigating complex and unexpected challenges. This experience can enhance a mother's problem-solving abilities, making them adept at finding creative solutions in the workplace.
Empathy and Team Collaboration: Mums bring a high degree of empathy and interpersonal skills, which can foster a positive and collaborative work environment. Their ability to understand and support their colleagues can enhance team dynamics and morale.
Why Clients Should Consider Returning Mums
Employers who recognise and value these strengths can gain a competitive edge by hiring mums returning to work. Here’s why:
Diverse Perspectives: Returning mums bring diverse perspectives and life experiences that can drive innovation and creativity within teams.
Reduced Turnover: Offering flexibility and support to returning mums can lead to higher job satisfaction and reduced turnover rates.
Positive Workplace Culture: Inclusive hiring practices that support parents can enhance the overall workplace culture and attract a broader range of talent.
Working with Forward-Thinking Clients
I genuinely enjoy working with clients who recognise the unique value that returning mums bring to the workforce. Their openness to flexible working arrangements and appreciation of the dedication and reliability of mums not only benefits their organisation but also contributes to creating a more inclusive and supportive work environment.
In conclusion, hiring mums returning to work is a win-win situation for both employers and employees. By valuing and leveraging their unique strengths, organisations can build more dynamic, resilient, and innovative teams. Let’s continue to support and celebrate the contributions of returning mums in the workplace.
Yes, we enjoy working with clients like this!
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