Parenthood is a pretty big deal. A significant life event. It really gets no bigger. And, there are approximately 8.8 million working parents (parents who have one or more dependents) right now in Australia. That's around 65% of the overall labour force. So, really, it should be crucial for organisations to support their people as best they can during this phase.
Their ability to manage this well will directly impact how they attract, engage and retain their people.
In this blog, we'll explore ways to enhance the parental experience at work and recommend specific services and products that HR leaders should consider.
1. Support Your People with Career Counselling
Navigating parenthood while pursuing a career can be challenging. Many parents face dilemmas about their professional aspirations and the desire to be present for their families. This is where career counselling can make a remarkable difference.
Why Career Counselling Matters:
Career counselling provides parents with valuable insights and guidance to help them make informed decisions about their career paths. It assists in aligning personal goals with professional aspirations, ensuring a harmonious balance. For organisations, supporting employees in this way leads to higher job satisfaction, increased productivity, and better retention rates.
Recommendation: WorkPants
WorkPants is an excellent resource for career counselling services. They offer personalised support to individuals seeking guidance in their careers, including parents. By connecting your employees with Workpants, you can empower them to manage their career and personal life effectively.
2. Support for Secondary Carers
It's important to recognize that parental support shouldn't be limited to those on maternity or paternity leave. Secondary carers, such as partners, also play a crucial role in the parental journey. They often face unique challenges and need resources tailored to their needs.
Supporting Secondary Carers:
Providing resources and assistance to secondary carers is essential for promoting a healthy work-life balance for both parents. It can reduce stress, enhance job satisfaction, and strengthen employee loyalty.
Recommendation: SMS4Dads
SMS4Dads is a fantastic service designed to support secondary carers, particularly fathers. It offers practical advice and information via text messages, helping secondary carers feel more confident and involved in the parenting process.
3. Designing the Parental Leave Journey
The parental leave journey is a critical aspect of supporting your employees during this life-changing transition. A well-designed parental leave program can make a significant difference in the overall experience - not only impacting employee retention but also wellbeing, productivity and diversity and inclusion.
Why Designing the Parental Leave Journey Matters:
A well-structured parental leave program demonstrates your organisation's commitment to its employees. It ensures a smooth transition into and out of parental leave, reduces stress, and fosters a supportive work environment. This positively impacts employee morale and engagement.
Recommendation: Exsona
Exsona specialises in designing comprehensive parental leave journeys tailored to your organisation's needs. By partnering with Exsona, you can create a structured and supportive parental leave journey that benefits both your employees and your organisation.
Supporting employees during the parental journey is not just a matter of goodwill; it's a strategic decision that can lead to a more engaged, satisfied, and productive workforce.
By investing in resources like career counselling, supporting secondary carers, and designing effective parental leave programs, your organisation can create a workplace that truly values its people.
If you'd like more information or assistance in implementing these recommendations, please reach out us via hello@exsona.com - or click here to book in for a free chat with us!
