Are mothers less dedicated to their work?

Are mothers less dedicated to their work?

This was just one of the thought-provoking questions asked in a recent webinar hosted by McDonald's South Africa.

It is no secret that there is a clear double standard when it comes to how working parents are viewed in the workplace, as well as the perception of their quality of work.

Though many of these perceptions are often driven by uninformed stereotypes, they indirectly affect the way in which women and mothers experience the work environment in comparison to their male counterparts.

In honour of International Women's Day, on which took place on 13 May this year, McDonald's South Africa brought together four women in business to discuss the common struggles and issues faced by working mothers in South Africa.

The webinar was hosted by public speaker, presenter, businesswoman and mother, Jo-Ann Strauss, and was also attended by the Director of Operations at McDonald's South Africa, Maureen Mtonintshi.

Also present was Skills Development Specialist and life coach, Fezile Thwala, who has coached over 3000 women, and Noni Mbete, a finance and business manager, presenter and change-maker.

Parent24 attended to find out what working moms are experiencing in 2021.

Mothers can be your greatest asset

In a Regus survey, 37% of the participating companies reported being concerned about working mothers being less dedicated and adaptable than the other workers.

"We expect women to work like they don’t have children and raise children as if they don’t work," quoted life coach and Skills Development Specialist, Fezile Thwala. "There is a general belief that you can either be a great mother or have a great career."

The panel discussed their experiences of being working mothers, having to be more devoted in an effort to offset jaded perceptions of their work ethic, and using their renewed motivation to better prioritise and organise their responsibilities.

So the question remains: are mothers less dedicated to their work?

The Huffington Post reported that "Two in five managers believe mums work faster and can multi-task more while a third said mums are more motivated and responsible."

This seems to suggest that working mothers are not only dedicated to their work, but especially dedicated.

"Mothers can be your greatest asset – because of their dedication," stressed life coach and Skills Development Specialist, Fezile Thwala.

Acknowledge when you’ve done something good

Other advice offered by the panel included tips for creating opportunities when none avail themselves, tackling outdated company policies and finding a work-life balance.

The panelists also held nothing back when providing tactical advice for working mothers.

Thwala kicked the webinar off with the first piece of advice, saying "You have to self-advocate by documenting your achievements – ask your clients and teammates to write testimonials of what you’ve done."

Documenting one’s achievements is a reminder to remember one's worth and keeps note of accomplishments that can be easily forgotten when tensions are high in the workplace.

"It's very important for our own personal development and growth to acknowledge when we’ve done something good," advised change-maker Mbete.

Don’t shrink when you should shine

Secondly, it is imperative for working mothers to take credit for the work they have done and promote their abilities and accomplishments.

"Sometimes we shrink when we should shine," noted Thwala, reminding working moms that taking credit for their work is neither egotistical nor boastful, but that "it’s ensuring that people understand your value".

Don’t be afraid to ask for a raise or promotion. Someone who understands their value does not let others abuse it and women in work should not undersell themselves.

Spend your time wisely

In a bid to achieve a balance between work and motherhood, it is important to leave your work at work and focus on the quality of time spent with family or loved ones.

The panelists emphasized how valuable it is for working mothers to find time to do things that bring them joy or peace, whether that be starting a fitness routine or embarking on a spiritual journey.

It is vital for everyone's mental well-being to find ways to "keep your cup full. To pour out of different parts of who you are – your cup has to be full," said Mbete.

Put mom guilt aside

Lastly, all women in the world of work should consider getting support.

There is no shame in calling on a career coach or mentor who has walked the journey to help you on yours.

"We fail, we get up, we go on - it’s all second nature to [mothers]," said Mbete. "We fumble, but we forge forward."

"As a mom, you’re always apologizing for being a mom," said former Miss South Africa, Jo-Ann Strauss. "Let’s put mom guilt aside."

First published on Parent24.