Bosses are still worried about hiring mums. But that’s ridiculous. And here’s why.
There’s been a lot of chitter-chatter lately about whether mums can compete with non-mums in the workforce.
And now a new study by law firm Slater & Gordon has shown one in three bosses would prefer to hire a man in his 20s or 30s than a woman of the same age, as they are concerned that women will leave their job to peruse family life. It also showed that 40% of employers would be “wary” of hiring a mother for a senior role.
Everyone is entitled to their opinion.
But I hate the thought that bosses around Australia are thinking it might be wiser to hire a non-mum next time they have a vacancy. Personally, I know that I’m a better employee now I’m a mum.
Here are 10 reasons why:
1. I might not work longer, but I will work smarter, harder and faster. I’m so used to having small children hanging off me that when I get a minute to myself, I’m super-focused and productive. And because I won’t be staying back late just to impress you, think of what you’ll save on electricity.
2. I don’t want your job. You don’t have to worry about me stabbing you in the back so I can get your nice big office with a view. I’m sure my career ambition will return in a few years’ time, but right now, I just want to earn my money and get home to my kids.
3. I understand people better now. Specifically, parents. I have an amazing bond with all other parents, like we went to school together. (Or to war together, maybe.) I can get inside their heads, which gives me all kinds of valuable insights. I also understand how kids work. Well, a little bit.
4. I won’t complain about being given boring work. I have spent the last few years ploughing my way through the entire Mr Men library, so I know the true meaning of the word “boring”. (Of course, giving me too much boring work would be a shocking waste of my abilities.)