Juggling going back to work after children is no simple task. On top of finding daycare options for your children, you also must find the workplace that can accommodate your schedule. Finding a great job goes beyond the job description. Find a place where you can see yourself working alongside the people in the organization and chances are it’s a good fit.
In Houston, we’ve seen an exciting shift with employers now offering more flexible work arrangements instead of the strict 9- to- 5.
Here are five benefits you should look for when scoping a potential workplace while returning to work.
Flexible Work Arrangements - Things can come up and derail your schedule whether you are a mom or not. Flexible work arrangements are becoming more prevalent within organizations today. That may mean working from home some days a week or having flexible hours when you work. Flexible work arrangements have been shown to make any employee more productive and can be a wonderful way to manage returning to work.
Paid Time Off - With a great time off benefit package, you can take a vacation without worrying about making up the time at work. Some workplaces combine great PTO policies with a vacation stipend. Because when you take time to unplug and spend time with your family, you come back to work refreshed and more productive.
Childcare Resources - Great companies know the value of working moms. Depending on the size of the company, you may find on-site childcare options or reimbursement packages to help cover the cost. As you research companies, be on the lookout for this benefit.
Health Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) - This is a tax-free savings account specifically for medical expenses. Contribute to an account pre-tax and use it for those unexpected, out-of-pocket medical expenses. This is a great way to cut down on unexpected medical bills (which you know will pop up with children in the family!) and reduce your taxable income.
Returnships - These are internships for adults who have taken a few years off. They’re a great resource for moms making a comeback and want to brush up on their skills or gain experience in a new field. Essentially, you get to test the waters before making a full commitment.
Based on our research, these Houston companies have fantastic qualities if you’re a mom returning to work after kids.
Houston Methodist Hospital
If you’re in a stay-at-home mom returning to work in the medical field, Houston Methodist Hospital is a must-apply! They offer great extra benefits like childcare resources, tuition assistance, wellness programs, recognition programs, just to name a few.
Chevron
Not only is Chevron doing amazing things in Houston for the community, the environment, and its employees, they offer an incredible returnship program seeking people who have taken an extended leave of absence from work. Learn more about the program here.
Mid-Continent Companies, Ltd.
This family owned boutique financial services firm provides the perfect environment for a working parent. It has an excellent employees benefits package. Aside from the standard health insurance, paid time off and 401(k) plan, Mid-Continent Companies, Ltd. includes health savings accounts, professional development, life insurance, and a financial wellness program. Family is the name of the game when it comes to their business because it caters to family owned businesses and families. And one of the best perks of all for working parents: the company embraces flexible and remote work arrangements for employees. You can feel confident about returning to work after kids with the right company fit. If you want help with an action plan, we’re here to help! At Parents Pivot, we provide career coaching and guidance for moms reentering the workforce. Contact us to learn more and get started!
