“(I wish I had) A greater sense that I was actually helping. Or making a difference.”

“(I need) acknowledgement from my company that times are different. And timelines and workload may need to be adjusted. My company is essentially business as usual even with everything going on….”

“(I want) clients who communicate better. We are used to in-person communication and the transition to email, phone, Zoom etc. has been rough.”

Over 2,700 parents, mostly Mothers (97%) working (86%) through uneven childcare or kids schooling (75%) have participated in our pandemic study since March of 2020. In our most recent survey wave, more than half (51%) are somewhat or less committed to their jobs. And for those who actively seek change, it’s not only about where they work. They want careers that enable their new priorities, provide greater meaning or reflect their values.

Jenny Galluzzo, Entrepreneur, Advocate and Career Expert, shares how the pandemic has altered all-things-work. Including what we expect in return. “Maybe you loved to go into the office, to conferences or the travel was exciting. But when all of the perks that we used to have, that made going to certain jobs fun and exciting, are taken away. It’s stripped down to what the actual functionality of your job is. So, you better really like your job. Because otherwise it’s just a grind.”

Do You Like Your Work at its Core?

In the past two and half years, almost every industry pivoted. Many surveyed Moms feel more stress yet have less support, psychological safety or stability. So, it’s a good time to reevaluate. Jenny said, “There have definitely been moments where I’m like, oh my God this is brutal! And I can’t get the energy to do the ten thousand things. But ultimately, I love my job and the impact. If I didn’t, I would be deeply rethinking where I was. And that’s what a lot of people are doing right now in the great resignation.”

Because Employers are Getting More Flexible

In our most recent survey waves, overall Moms cite better support from their employers. Although 34% of surveyed Moms say their employers have been supporting them ‘terribly’ or ‘not very well,’ 31% say they’ve been doing an adequate job. And 35% say their employers have been doing ‘well’ or ‘very well.’

And Jenny has observed, the companies that are finding and keeping their teams, continue to make meaningful shifts. She said, “It’s very hard for employers right now. But the companies that have adopted the idea, that talent wins, are leading with a sense of vulnerability and collaboration.”

So, Consider Ways to Upgrade

Jenny said opportunities abound, “No one’s going back to what was considered normal. Because it’s been too long there’s been too much change.” So, you may not need to leave your current employer or field to improve your circumstances.

Many have negotiated better compensation, leadership opportunities and remote work arrangements. And more organizations are becoming savvy about the importance of family and work/life benefits.

Including Better Benefits

In our research study when asked, “what benefits or policy changes should your employers make to reduce stress?” The answers have been pretty consistent. The top three remain: a raise (51%) more paid leave (49%) and childcare subsidies or reimbursements (45%.)

Jenny has seen employers respond with new options. “Mental health benefits, paid leave or childcare credits, have both emotional and monetary value. Because they allow people to come in and do their work. And there’s a level of stickiness and gratitude towards companies coming at this moment from a place of seeing, feeling and hearing what their employees need.”

So, Reach for Your Career Dreams

Most Mothers are eager to embrace their new priorities. And shed the obligations that no longer suit their lives. But without any guilt or reprisal from their managers. So, whether you crave more meaning, professional development, money, benefits or flexibility, now is the time to ask for it.

There’s still a lot of pandemic strain on the systems we rely on. So, navigate to the resources, leaders and work cultures, that will best support you. And deliver a great experience or a smooth onramp back from a pause. And if none of that appeals to you, consider promoting yourself to the C-Suite. Women continue to start their own businesses at record rates to overcome many of the limits in traditional workplaces.

Many thanks to the talented Jenny Galluzzo!

Follow her great adventure and learn more about her company, the Second Shift on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.

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⏰ Ready to put yourself back onto your to-do list? Take a TimeCheck.

🙋🏽‍♀️Shared your story yet? Take our quick survey to change how workplaces support parents.

⚖️Employers, ready to rewrite hidden workplace rules? Become Allies@Work 

About Jenny

As the co-founder of The Second Shift, Jenny Galluzzo lives her life committed to the empowerment of women through work. She is fiercely dedicated to shifting the path forward for women, encouraging them to forge their own career paths with confidence, intention and optimism. Jenny is responsible for the member community and all things brand, overseeing messaging, communications, and content channels. She curates events across the country to bring members and business partners together, and with her team, is in close contact with members during the multi-step application process. Beyond connecting women with jobs, Jenny is also in regular contact with members, advising about career transitions, gender equity in the workforce, and becoming an agent for change.

Prior to starting The Second Shift, Jenny spent many years in journalism, researching, writing, hosting and producing for Good Morning America, News 12 and Plum TV. Jenny holds a BA from Duke University and an MS from the Columbia University School of Journalism. She lives in New York City with her two young sons.