The majority of mums would rather work than give up their jobs and be at home, according to a new survey.
The survey of mums throughout the UK, conducted by 2to3days and FEEL Communications, found that 83 per cent would rather work. Of those surveyed, 73 per cent are motivated by the challenges that work brings, while 66 per cent thought it was important to be a role model to their children.
The research also found that the biggest priority for working mums was flexible working with 51 per cent saying this should be an option. A quarter said that they looked for a trusting manager, while only seven per cent of those surveyed wanted a salary that recognised their skills.
Eight out of ten mums said they regularly worked outside of their contracted hours and 86 per cent work up to eight hours a week extra. Despite this, 32 per cent thought that the hours didn’t matter as long as the job is done.
The survey also found a need for flexible and part time roles, with 98 per cent looking for these roles. However, only 8.7 per cent of jobs advertised in the UK offer flexible working with a salary of £20,000 or more.
Jane Johnson, Managing Director of FEEL Communications, said, :”We have a network of associates who passionately believe in their own career development but have chosen to do this around their family commitments.”
“Because we work with clients who offer flexible working arrangements, our clients can reach talented experienced women who would otherwise be inaccessible to them.”
“Some companies struggle to keep women in their workforce after having a family so there is clearly more that needs to be done but our research shows the positive attitude and value that many mothers bring to the workforce.”
Juliet Turnbull, founder of 2to3days, said, “The consistent feedback that we have had from employers who have successfully used our site is that they are blown away with the calibre of our candidates and the cost-effective ease of finding them.”
“Whilst from the mothers it is palpable relief that our site exists.”
