In today’s world, it’s often said that women can “have it all”—a thriving career, a family, and personal fulfillment. Yet, for many working mothers, balancing career progression and motherhood can feel more like a myth than reality. Despite strides in workplace equality, many moms still encounter challenges, experiencing what some call “the motherhood penalty.” This concept reflects the struggles women face when it comes to career advancement after becoming mothers. At Indian Women in Dubai (IWD), we support women in navigating these challenges, recognizing that, while progress has been made, there’s still work to be done.
Career Progression and Motherhood: The Facts
It’s easy for managers and society to dismiss the “motherhood penalty” as a myth. However, research tells a different story. Studies reveal that mothers are often paid 8% less than their non-mother counterparts and 18% less than male colleagues. This pay gap also reflects a slower career progression, with many mothers feeling that their professional growth has stalled post-maternity leave. Despite their ambitions, these women face additional hurdles, including microaggressions, excessive workloads, and a lack of recognition for their hard work.
But does becoming a mom mean giving up on career progression entirely? At IWD, we believe the answer is a resounding “no.” Here are four actionable tips to help moms continue climbing the career ladder while embracing their role as parents.
1. Be Upfront
The narrative that moms can effortlessly balance everything is misleading. Working mothers face unique challenges, and overextending yourself can lead to burnout and potential setbacks in your career. When re-entering the workforce or starting a new job, be open with your employer about your needs. Set clear expectations around hours and flexibility, such as working remotely during school holidays. Managers often appreciate this honesty and are more likely to accommodate flexible arrangements if they know what to expect. Being upfront from the start allows moms to avoid overpromising and ensures they remain dependable team members, even with parental responsibilities.
As the event date approaches, gradually reveal more information. Share sneak peeks of new products, behind-the-scenes shots of your setup, or a limited-edition logo created just for the pop-up. This creates a sense of exclusivity and makes your audience feel like they’re part of something special. This strategy is particularly effective for women-led businesses in Dubai aiming to build buzz and drive footfall.
On the day of the event, release the time and final location details. Keep the excitement alive by posting live updates, photos, and videos from the event. Encourage attendees to tag your brand on social media and share their experiences, amplifying your reach beyond those who are physically present.
2. Stick to Realistic Hours
It’s crucial for working moms to define boundaries and choose realistic hours that align with their family commitments. With increased flexibility in many workplaces, moms now have more options, such as working within school hours or splitting their schedule between early mornings and evenings. Avoid committing to schedules that don’t suit your situation—like a 6 am start if you’re up at night with a baby, or after-school hours if you lack reliable childcare. Making realistic commitments prevents added stress, ensures consistent performance, and helps avoid the traps of the motherhood penalty that could impact future promotion prospects.
3. Establish Equality at Home
True career progression for working moms often requires a foundation of support at home. Although we’ve made strides toward gender equality, many working mothers still handle the bulk of childcare and household tasks. This imbalance often hinders their ability to pursue career growth. Establishing true equality at home—such as sharing school drop-offs, meal preparation, and other responsibilities—can give working moms the freedom to focus on their careers without being pulled in multiple directions. This balance at home can make a significant difference in a mom’s ability to take on additional responsibilities at work, thus enhancing her visibility and reliability in the eyes of her employer.
4. Keep Your Eye on the Ball
While it’s not easy to juggle everything, maintaining a long-term vision for your career can help counter the motherhood penalty. Many women step away from the workforce or take lower-paying jobs after having children, assuming that their career prospects are limited. However, staying committed to your career goals, even if you’re not actively seeking promotions during early motherhood, can pay off in the long run. Keeping up with your responsibilities, performing well, and building your skills ensures you remain competitive when you’re ready to seek advancement again. Remember, your career can progress on your timeline, and taking small, consistent steps forward now will make it easier to re-engage fully when the time is right.
Empowering Moms at IWD
At Indian Women in Dubai (IWD), we believe that mothers don’t have to choose between career and family. Our community offers support, networking opportunities, and resources to help working moms thrive in both areas. From hosting events that celebrate mothers and working professionals to providing a platform where moms can share their challenges and successes, IWD is committed to breaking down the barriers that hold women back. Remember, career progression and motherhood can go hand in hand if we advocate for flexibility, equality, and self-belief in every step of the journey.
From creating a visually stunning setup to leveraging social media and embracing customer interaction, these strategies can help you build your brand and create lasting relationships with your customers. Ready to host your pop-up event? Remember, it’s not just about selling products—it’s about creating an experience that your audience will never forget.
Let us know how your pop-up goes, and don’t forget to share your stories with us on our social channels. Happy planning!
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