Motherhood isn’t something that neatly fits into after-work hours, like going to the gym or dining with friends. As more people in corporate America are forgoing family life in favor of their career I think it makes it harder for us working moms to advance our careers, because we cannot commit to our job in the same capacity as those without children.
This may just be my experience, but corporate America is way behind in allowing flex arrangements. They may market themselves as the “best company for working moms” but when it comes down to reality, managers don’t want to hire people who seek flexible work time, no matter how good they would be at the job.
I’ve found that in order to make flex time work for me I have to work twice as hard. I have to prove myself to my boss and team members. I have to show them I add value in the office and I can add even more value when I work from home.
I’m honest with my boss about the appointments I have, the hours I work and the daily progress I make. But don’t be fooled- flex time can easily turn into over time. While I may not work for an hour in the middle of the day, it’s more likely that when I sign in at night to finish up my work I will spend more than an hour working.
It’s not easy and it’s not fair, but in order to get the flex time I need this is what I’ve had to do.
What’s your experience with flex time? Is it standard practice where you work?
Until next time,
Shaindy
