Supporting Parents Returning to Work: A Win-Win for Employers

In today’s competitive job market, smart employers know that creating a diverse and inclusive workplace isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s also good for business. One often-overlooked opportunity for building a stronger, more diverse team is supporting parents transitioning back into the workforce after taking time off to care for their children.

Why focus on returning parents?

Parents re-entering the workforce bring a wealth of skills and experiences that can benefit your business:

1. Enhanced time management and multitasking abilities
2. Improved problem-solving skills honed through parenting challenges
3. Increased empathy and emotional intelligence
4. Fresh perspectives and renewed enthusiasm for work

By tapping into this talent pool, you’re not just filling a vacancy, you’re investing in employees who are likely to be highly motivated, loyal, and eager to contribute their unique skillsets to your team.

Creating a supportive workplace for parents returning to work

So, how can you make your workplace more welcoming and accommodating for returning parents? Here are some practical strategies to consider:

• Flexible work arrangements: Offer options like part-time hours, job sharing, or remote work possibilities. This flexibility can be a game-changer for parents juggling work and family commitments.
• Phased return-to-work programs: Consider implementing a gradual return-to-work scheme that allows parents to ease back into their roles over a period of weeks or months. This approach can help reduce stress and increase long-term success.
• Mentorship and support networks: Pair returning parents with mentors who have successfully navigated the work-parent balance. Encourage the formation of support groups or networks within your organisation where parents can share experiences and advice.
• Clear communication and expectations: Have open, honest conversations about role expectations, performance metrics, and career development opportunities. This clarity can help alleviate anxiety and set the stage for success.
• Family-friendly policies: Review your company policies to ensure they’re inclusive of parents’ needs. This might include provisions for parental leave, breastfeeding facilities, or childcare support.
• Training and upskilling opportunities: Offer refresher courses or upskilling programs to help returning parents rebuild confidence and update their skills, especially if they’ve been away from the workforce for an extended period.

Overcoming challenges

It’s important to acknowledge that supporting returning parents may present some challenges. These might include:

• Concerns about productivity or commitment
• Potential resentment from other team members
• Logistical hurdles in implementing flexible arrangements

However, with proper planning, clear communication, and a commitment to inclusivity, these challenges can be overcome. The benefits of retaining experienced talent and fostering a diverse workforce far outweigh the initial adjustments required.

The business case

Supporting parents returning to work isn’t just about being a good corporate citizen, it makes solid business sense:

• Reduced recruitment and training costs
• Improved employee retention and loyalty
• Enhanced company reputation as an employer of choice
• Increased diversity of thought and experience within your team

By creating an environment where parents feel valued and supported, you’re investing in the long-term success of both your employees and your organisation.

Hire and support parents returning to the workforce. Rethink employment with CoAct.

We’ve seen first-hand how much parents can bring to the table in a workplace setting, through the many mums and dads who have found jobs through CoAct’s Disability Employment Services (DES) (now Inclusive Employment Australia – IEA) and Workforce Australia.

Ready to tap into this valuable talent pool and create a more inclusive workplace? The CoAct employment team is here to help. Our experienced employment consultants can work with you to develop strategies tailored to your organisation’s needs, connect you with qualified candidates, and provide ongoing support as you build a more diverse and dynamic workforce.