For many employed single mothers, it’s a continual challenge to balance dedicating time and attention to their kids while excelling in their chosen careers. Despite these difficulties, they persist and manage to thrive.
A supportive and inclusive environment is a crucial factor contributing to the success of single mothers in the workplace. Employers play a vital role in fostering an open and trustworthy culture to prevent single mothers from feeling pressured to choose between their jobs and caring for their children.
Employers can aid by offering flexible work hours, remote work options, and assistance with childcare to help these mothers effectively manage their responsibilities. Additionally, implementing fair policies that ensure equal opportunities for all employees can create a more comfortable and less stressful workplace for single mothers.
Some single working mothers were asked about their successful strategies and what changes they’d like to see in the workplace to accommodate them better.
Women Can Be Successful With Children
Archana Raman, Global Head of L&D at Thoughtworks and a single mother of two, confidently stated that she hasn’t faced bias or discrimination at work due to her marital status. Her team supports her when she has extra responsibilities, and the flexibility and trust within her team allow her to handle her work efficiently while being transparent about her availability and constraints in specific situations.
“Be bold and share feedback constantly. In most cases, people do not realise they have said or done something to offend you. When you share how you felt and the impression you got, they understand where you are coming from,” she advised other working mothers who face challenges at their workplace.
Never Hesitate to Seek Help
Deepa Ramakrishnan, AVP of Corporate Communications at Marlabs India and a single mother hasn’t personally encountered any apparent bias or discrimination at her workplace. However, she’s chosen not to share her status as a single mother with her colleagues, including those at prominent women’s magazines. This decision stems from her discomfort and the prevailing “alpha” and high-paced culture within the organisation.
“Anyone claiming absence at work or inability to do something was not dedicated enough – to the company, its leaders, and their families. As a result, taking a day off or leaving early to attend to my child’s needs was often frowned upon. Even just wanting to spend more time with my child was sometimes met with disapproval,” she recalls.
Marlabs has been a breath of fresh air for Deepa. “At Marlabs, while it is not a topic discussed out loud, I have found a sense of comfort I’ve never felt before and have never felt the need to hide my (non) marital status.I have only experienced support and genuine concern here. Although I no longer have the same challenges I faced in 2009, I remain cautious about opening up to society due to the fear of predators,” she adds.
Her daughter studying in college abroad has eased some aspects of Deepa’s situation. Nevertheless, there were occasions when she had to put in long hours, starting early morning and ending late at night. Despite these challenges, she remained dedicated to her work without giving up.
It All Starts With You
Debadutta Pradhan, a product owner at Amdocs Pune, has never encountered discrimination because of her marital status throughout her five-year tenure. She has consistently been open about it with her colleagues.
Initially, Debadutta faced considerable challenges in juggling her professional and personal duties, but her situation has improved over time. “I have always been comfortable being open about my personal status, and my colleagues value my professional abilities, irrespective of my marital status. As professionals, my team focuses on the skills and qualities individuals bring to the workplace,” she says.
“I consciously separate my work and personal time, setting aside a few hours each day to discuss my daughter’s studies. Thanks to Amdocs’ work-life balance culture, I can devote my weekends to spending time with my daughter,” she adds.
She stresses the importance of avoiding categorising individuals based on their marital status and promoting nurturing and supportive work environments where people are willing to aid single parents without passing judgement.
These stories and many others demonstrate women’s diverse approaches towards motherhood and profession. Each of them has tried to embrace the incredibly beautiful and inspiring experience of raising a child or children in their unique way while also nurturing their professional path.
