Women leaving high powered jobs as they face the ‘motherhood penalty’

COMPANIES that are not open to flexibility in the workplace are at a high risk of losing experienced women.

This is according to recruitment expert Karen O’Reilly who said that many women feel they cannot ask for flexibility as this will negatively impact their career trajectory. She said that added to this is the fact that many of their male colleagues will often generally not avail of flexible work practices such as reduced hours, remote work or take their parental leave.

Founder of Employflex, Karen O’Reilly said: “From our perspective and talking to women every day who approach us seeking flexible work, we know that women are burnt out and are leaving senior roles, particularly mothers who are experiencing the motherhood penalty while trying to juggle it all.”

A recent Forbes article talks of the ‘Great Breakup’ and it refers to a trend where women are more likely to leave their jobs than get their needs met by their employer.

Ms O’Reilly added: “It’s important to note that these ambitious women aren’t leaving the workforce. Instead, they are walking away from their companies in search of better opportunities. Because they are reevaluating their values and priorities, some are even switching industries or setting up their own businesses. The losers are the companies who are not hanging on to their valuable diverse talent.”

Ms O’Reilly said that there is a lot Irish companies can do in order to retain more senior female talent as they seek to find improved work-life balance. Companies can offer the opportunity for female employees to go from full-time work down to 4.5 days per week. Even a small change like that could go a long way, according to Ms O’Reilly.

“Companies need to make some positive small steps in the right direction and listen to their female employees.”