Flexibility key for working moms
September 6, 2012
A new survey reveals job flexibility is key for American workers. The second annual Labor Day Workplace Study conducted by Harris Interactive for professional staffing firm Mom Corps found that flexible work options are a priority for many, and that they are willing to take a cut in pay in order to get it.
The online survey of nearly 1,100 adults found that nearly half of working adults (45 percent) are willing to give up some percentage of their salary for more flexibility at work. The average they were willing to relinquish is 8.6 percent, a number that is almost double the amount from last year's study.
Additionally, 61 percent strongly or somewhat agree that flexibility is one of the most important factors they consider when looking for a new job or deciding what company to work for. More than half (52 percent) think they would be more productive if they were able to work from home occasionally.
Flexibility was even more important to working parents. Nearly three quarters (71 percent) said that flexibility is one of the most important factors they consider when looking for a new job or deciding what company to work for. And, 81 percent said that flexible work options allow them to be a better parent.
"We are beginning to see significant patterns in the value professionals of all ages place on workplace flexibility," said Allison O’Kelly, founder and CEO of Mom Corps. "More and more, we feel challenged by the collective pressures of a demanding work life, a hectic personal life, and a desire to find fulfillment in both."
While the Mom Corps survey revealed that a flexible work schedule is increasingly attractive to American parents, these arrangements are not necessarily the norm in many cases.
According to recent data released by the Families and Work Institute (FWI), just 3 percent of wage and salary employees work mainly from home. FWI also found that individuals who have flexible work arrangements are likely to have higher levels of job satisfaction, less stress, better physical and mental health and stronger intentions to remain with their employers.
While some careers may be more conducive to flexible work situations, moms who are looking for a job, considering a career change or weighing their options on what type of career to pursue may benefit from getting a college degree.
Research indicates that having a bachelor's degree can boost earning potential significantly and help make them more desirable in a difficult work environment. Paying for college while raising a family can be made possible through college scholarships, grants for parents and other financial aid.
