Our Fall 2003 Luncheon was a tremendous success– thanks to all who attended. We took on the subject of “getting flexible” because we knew it was the one you wanted to discuss most, and at the luncheon one of the most interesting things was the range of war stories as well as success stories. A similar scope was reflected in the results of our survey on flexibility. As promised, here are some of the highlights:

There are real issues and frustrations many executive moms face with the desire to have more work flexibility

* Of those not getting flexibility, 43% say it is because they fear being taken less seriously in their careers … Topping the wish list: * 30% wish they had the option to telecommute or work from home more… another 23% wish they could just scoot out more as needed for important appointments and events. Only 5% cited job sharing as their ideal change, which may be a reflection of low awareness or understanding of this option.

The good news: a majority of you– 54% — feel you ARE getting some flexibility with your work situation.

In fact, an impressive number of you shared anecdotes on how you’ve made your work WORK for you. Just a few examples:

“I’m able to work from home on Fridays. They were skittish at first, then enthusiastic. As I have a long commute, it made all the difference in my energy level and, frankly, upped my job performance on that basis alone.” …”My peers understand my situation and do not frown if I come in late, but work late, or leave for appointments” … “I negotiated strict and shorter hours (9 instead of typical 11 or so) by talking with my boss ahead of my maternity leave. I clearly explained my rationale, that my nanny needed to have regular hours so she could care for her family. The offer was accepted and I’ve been working 8-5 ever since.”

This Momorandum is sponsored by the JCC Manhattan

The JCC Manhattan appreciates executive moms — in fact, they’ve developed a whole roster of programs with sensitivity to the schedules and interests of working parents and their kids. Nonmembers of any denomination welcome!

Learn more about these programs at jccmanhattan.org

Enjoyed this Momorandum? Forward it to a friend, and visit us often and www.executivemoms.com!

Sincerely,

Executive Moms