Job Changes for Working Parents
Is it possible for working parents to change jobs right now? For thoughtful candidates, yes, it is possible! Current job candidates are concerned about job security with a new employer and are also hesitant to change jobs due to pandemic childcare issues.
Last week, we addressed the job security concern. This week’s article will tackle the complicated issue of how to address pandemic childcare when seeking new employment.
Childcare & Today’s Job Search
This is an especially challenging time for working parents. If a current employer has explicitly or implicitly approved a work-from-home arrangement that meets the unprecedented childcare needs of the pandemic, it is hard to walk away from that, even if overall, the job is a poor fit. However, if a candidate has a reasonable “request” for a new employer, there are job opportunities available. Candidates should come up with a win-win proposal. Examples of such a proposal may include:
- A reduced part-time work schedule (at reduced pay) until the children return to school with the ability to go to a full-time position when in-person childcare and school are available.
- A behind the scenes, non-client facing position now with the ability to transition to a client facing position when childcare becomes more available.
- A schedule that allows some evening work, early morning or weekend work, in order to make it easier to split childcare duties with another parent.
For many positions and employers, these are options they ordinarily would not want to offer. However, employers understand that these types of arrangements may be needed at this unprecedented time. When crafting your proposals, keep in mind training needs, the ability to respond to client questions and time during the business day to interact with peers.
Once you have some ideas on win-win proposals, the next challenge is how to broach the topic. Very few employers are going to ask you about your childcare needs because such questions are fraught with legal peril. Employers do not want to be perceived as discriminating against parents. So, as the applicant, you are going to have to vocalize your needs. We suggest doing so early in the process, particularly if you are being recruited. It is important to frame the issue calmly and non-emotionally. Maybe something like “I am open to considering a new position, but currently I have some pandemic childcare needs. Would you be willing to entertain some short-term, reasonable child care accommodations to establish a long term relationship?” How an employer answers this question will tell you a lot about them.
Are you open to considering a new position? Check out open positions at https://nova401k.applicantstack.com/x/openings. Please contact Kelli Evans at [email protected] for additional information or if you are seeking a position that is currently not posted.