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Whether they are re-entering the workforce after parental leave or seeking career development support, mothers can face myriad challenges that are both structural and systemic. However, with the right supports, including flexible workplaces and a holistic approach to career development, mothers can successfully re-enter the workforce and thrive in their careers. The following resources explore challenges mothers may face and offer strategies, research and tools to support them at different stages of their career journeys.
Career Counselling Considerations for Mothers Returning to Work (University of Toronto) [Article]
This article looks at the unique challenges women may face when transitioning back to work from parental leave. It offers insights for career counsellors seeking to help their clients experience an optimal work re-entry.
How to Embrace Career Change as a Mom: Finding Your Passion and Overcoming Guilt (Momwell) [Article]
Career and leadership coach Jess Galica discusses how moms can overcome fear and guilt and embrace career change.
Making It Work! How to Effectively Manage Maternity Leave Career Transitions: An Employer’s Guide (CERIC) [Guide]
This CERIC-published guide is intended for employers facilitating maternity-leave career transitions and women’s career development. The guide covers topics including career development, return-to-work plans and considerations for diverse populations.
Making It Work! How to Effectively Navigate Maternity Leave Career Transitions: An Employee’s Guide (CERIC) [Guide]
Developed for women taking maternity leave, this guide serves as a starting point to develop positive career management practices. Topics include how to communicate your value in the workplace, understand your career style and develop strategic return-to-work plans.
Mothers into Work [Organization]
Mothers into Work aims to empower mothers to realize their career ambitions by raising women’s confidence and awareness of career pathways. Its key initiatives include entrepreneurial support, career re-entry support and career coaching.
Re-entry moms: untapped talent at its finest (Careering magazine) [Article]
This article argues that re-entry moms are an untapped talent pool. For employers to recognize this, they must reflect on outdated hiring practices, remove structural barriers such as resumé-gap screening and build more flexible, caregiver-friendly workplaces.
The impact of motherhood on women’s career progression (Australian National University) [Report]
This report from the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership explores the “motherhood penalty,” including challenges such as lower wages and unrealistic expectations around availability. The study also finds that interventions that challenge gender norms and demonstrate the value of care can help build a culture in which mothers thrive as workers at every level.
The role of holistic career services for young mothers (CareerWise) [Article]
This article explores how a holistic approach to career services can help young mothers build the confidence to explore career opportunities, seek out new opportunities and develop a healthy work-life balance.
