5 Actions People Leaders Can Take to Support Parents and Boost their Team's Success
As a people leader, you have the power to make a meaningful difference in the lives of working parents, irrespective of their gender or caregiving roles.
The recent report from the Women's Economic Equality Taskforce outlines a 10-year plan to promote gender equality across Australia and shared parental responsibilities in all households. And while organisational policies play a major role, as an individual, People Leaders can make an immediate impact.
5 Quick and Easy Steps for People Leaders to support Working Parent and create a more empathetic and inclusive workplace:
Encourage Time Management and Prioritisation
One of the quickest and most impactful steps you can take is to help working parents develop effective time management skills.
Encourage them to prioritise tasks and set realistic goals and expectations. By doing so, you can reduce their stress and improve their work-life balance.Be Mindful of Meetings and Deadlines
Show empathy and consideration for working parents by being mindful of your scheduling decisions.
Avoid last-minute or late-afternoon meetings, which can be particularly challenging for them. Simple adjustments in meeting times can make a significant difference.
Be considerate when scheduling meetings and setting deadlines. Avoid last-minute or late-afternoon meetings, which can be particularly challenging for working parents. This shows empathy and consideration for their time.Create a Supportive Peer Network
Empower working parents by encouraging them to connect and support each other.
You can facilitate the formation of peer networks or mentorship programs where experienced parents guide those who are newer to the balancing act. Your role in fostering this community is crucial.Offer Parental Training and Development
Consider providing training and development programs specifically tailored to the needs of working parents within your team.
These programs empower them to manage their responsibilities more efficiently and grow in their careers. As a people leader, you can champion these initiatives.Lead by Example
As a people leader, you have the opportunity to lead by example when it comes to work-life balance and empathetic leadership. Demonstrating your own commitment to these principles sends a powerful message to your team. Show that you value your own work-life balance and prioritise well-being.
In this evolving landscape, People Leaders have the unique opportunity to lead with empathy and foster a culture where work compliments life, not the other way around.
By implementing these practical steps, you can foster inclusivity and improve work-life balance for all parents within your team.
Your actions as a people leader can ignite positive change and pave the way for true equality and shared responsibilities in the workplace. And this support benefits not only parents but also enriches the lives of all team members.
As we navigate a changing work landscape, it's up to Leaders to lead with empathy and ensure that work adapts to life, not the other way around.
At The Parents Corner, we're dedicated to helping People Leaders like you create a workplace where empathy and inclusivity thrive. Drawing from our experience in building supportive communities for Working Parents, offering coaching, online training, and valuable resources, you don't have to navigate this journey alone.
Are you ready to make a meaningful difference? Reach out to Rachel MacDonald for more information and unlock the positive impact we can achieve together.
