In today’s episode of “Conversations that Connect,” hosts Naomi Moodie, Suki Stander, and Tayla Allan delve into the profound topic of balancing parenting and work. This discussion, titled “At the Heart of Work: What Do We Value Most?”, explores the different perspectives and challenges faced by working parents, employees, and employers. With insights from a recent LinkedIn poll and personal experiences, this episode sheds light on what truly matters in the workplace.

Introduction

Balancing work and parenting is a topic that resonates with many. Whether you are a parent, a child of working parents, an employer, or an employee, the challenges and values associated with managing these roles are universal. In this blog post, we explore the heart of what we value most at work and how these values shape our professional and personal lives.

The Importance of Flexible Working Arrangements

Poll Insights on Workplace Values

Earlier this week, we conducted a LinkedIn poll to understand what working parents value most when considering new job opportunities. The results were enlightening:

• Flexible Working Arrangements: 82%
• Family Values within the Organization: 9%
• Empathy within the Work Culture: 9%
• Approachable Management: 0%

The overwhelming preference for flexible working arrangements highlights the critical need for workplaces to accommodate the diverse needs of their employees.

Why Flexibility Matters

Suki Stander emphasizes, “Flexible working is the key to being able to juggle it all.” For parents, the ability to adjust work schedules to meet family needs is paramount. This flexibility allows parents to be present for their children while fulfilling their professional responsibilities. It’s not just about managing work hours; it’s about creating an environment where employees can thrive both at work and at home.

The Role of Empathy and Approachable Management

Empathy in the Workplace

Empathy within the work culture received 9% of the votes in our poll. Tayla Allan notes, “Empathy supports mental well-being and helps create a supportive environment.” Empathetic leaders understand that employees bring their whole selves to work, including their personal challenges and responsibilities. By fostering an empathetic culture, organizations can build loyalty and trust among their employees.

Approachable Management

Interestingly, approachable management received 0% in the poll. Suki explains, “If management is not approachable, it won’t even be a consideration.” This suggests that the presence of approachable management is a given in workplaces that prioritize flexibility and empathy. Employees expect their managers to be accessible and understanding, which is a fundamental aspect of a healthy work environment.

Family Values within the Organization

The Package Deal

Naomi Moodie shares, “Employing someone means employing the whole family package.” This perspective underscores the importance of recognizing that employees come with various responsibilities, such as school pickups, doctor’s appointments, and family emergencies. Organizations that value family life and provide support for these responsibilities create a more inclusive and productive work environment.

Building Loyalty through Family Support

Suki recounts a recent experience where Naomi had to evacuate due to bushfires. The immediate response from her team was, “Family’s first. Take care of yourself.” This incident highlights how supportive workplaces can foster loyalty. Employees who feel supported in their personal lives are more likely to be committed and engaged in their professional roles.

Balancing Transparency and Privacy

Navigating Personal Challenges

Suki discusses the dilemma of how much personal information to share with a new employer. For instance, an employee with a recurring medical issue might hesitate to disclose this during the hiring process. Tayla adds, “There’s a balance of how much information you give regarding your family and personal circumstances.” While transparency is important, employees should also feel secure in maintaining their privacy until they establish trust with their employer.

Creating Trust and Understanding

Building trust between employees and employers is essential. Naomi points out, “Genuine connection is crucial for a supportive work environment.” By creating an atmosphere where employees feel comfortable sharing their challenges, employers can better support their workforce and address any issues that may arise.

Recruitment and the Value of Personal Connections

The Misconception about Recruitment

Tayla highlights a common misconception about recruitment: “People think it’s very surface level and transactional, but there’s a lot of work that goes into understanding the person and the company.” Effective recruitment involves getting to know candidates on a deeper level to ensure a good fit with the organization’s values and culture.

Aligning Values for Success

Naomi emphasizes the importance of placing candidates in environments that align with their values. “Putting a family-oriented person in a job that requires long hours away from home is not sustainable.” By aligning candidates’ values with the right roles, recruitment can create lasting and fulfilling employment relationships.

Future Discussions on Parenting and Work

Upcoming Series on Parenting

Given the breadth of this topic, Suki, Tayla, and Naomi plan to continue the conversation in future episodes. They will explore different perspectives on parenting and work, including insights from employees, employers, and experts in the field. This series aims to provide a well-rounded view of the challenges and strategies for balancing work and family life.

Inviting Listener Participation

The hosts encourage listeners to share their thoughts and questions about parenting and work. Tayla says, “If you have any parent-friendly questions or if you’re an organization with questions, reach out to us.” By engaging with their audience, they hope to create a platform for meaningful discussions and solutions.

Conclusion

At the heart of work, what we value most is a supportive and empathetic environment that recognizes the whole person, including their family responsibilities. Flexible working arrangements, approachable management, family values, and empathy are key components of a workplace that nurtures loyalty and productivity. As we continue to explore the intersection of parenting and work, we invite you to join the conversation and share your experiences.

To stay updated on the latest discussions and gain more insights, be sure to listen to our full podcast episode of “Conversations that Connect.” Don’t forget to subscribe for future episodes packed with valuable advice and tips for navigating the world of work.

Key Takeaways

• Flexible Working Arrangements Are Crucial:

  The LinkedIn poll revealed that 82% of working parents prioritize flexible working arrangements when considering new job opportunities. Flexibility is essential for balancing work and family responsibilities.

• Empathy and Approachable Management Foster Loyalty:

  An empathetic work culture and approachable management are vital for creating a supportive environment. These elements help employees feel valued and understood, fostering loyalty and commitment.

• Aligning Values for Successful Recruitment:
  

  Effective recruitment goes beyond matching skills to job requirements. It involves understanding candidates’ values and ensuring they align with the organization’s culture. This alignment leads to more fulfilling and sustainable employment relationships.

If you have a burning topic you’d like to discuss, don’t hesitate to reach out at hello@montagu.com.au.

Join the conversation Today!

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Welcome to our latest blog post, “February Findings – Market Catchup.” In this discussion, hosts Suki Stander and Tayla Allan from Montagu Group provide valuable insights into the current job market trends. They highlight the evolving dynamics post-COVID and offer practical advice for job seekers navigating the competitive landscape.

Introduction

The job market continues to shift, even years after the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding these changes is crucial for both job seekers and employers. In this blog post, we’ll revisit key points from recent discussions and workshops, focusing on the increased selectivity of clients, the importance of tailored resumes, and the evolving criteria for shortlisting candidates.

Shifts in the Job Market Post-COVID

Increased Selectivity in Hiring

Suki Stander kicks off the discussion by noting a significant trend: clients have become more selective about the candidates they interview and shortlist. “Unlike a year or two ago, where almost anyone who sent in a resume got an interview, the criteria for shortlisting and interviewing candidates has become more stringent,” she explains. This change is driven by more talent entering the market and increased movement within it, prompting clients to be more discerning about their selections.

Emphasis on Detailed Position Descriptions

Tayla Allan adds, “I’d say about 90% of the time, clients want to see the position description before agreeing to interview a candidate.” This shift underscores the importance of clarity and specificity in job postings and resumes. Employers are not only looking for the right skill set but also for a personality and cultural fit, making it essential for candidates to tailor their applications accordingly.

The Importance of Tailored Resumes

Skills and Cultural Fit

Suki emphasizes that their first step in shortlisting candidates is to assess skills relevant to the role. However, cultural fit is equally important. “Our focus is to rule candidates in rather than out,” she says. Once they speak to a candidate, they evaluate both their skills and how well they align with the client’s culture and needs.

The Role of Selection Criteria

Recently, a government client requested selection criteria, which is not usually required. While it can be time-consuming, Suki notes, “If done right, selection criteria can add value to a resume.” This detailed approach allows candidates to showcase their experience in a structured manner, highlighting how they meet specific job requirements.

Practical Tips for Effective Resumes

Multiple Tailored Resumes

Tayla points out that many candidates have multiple resumes tailored for different positions. “Having one for business analysis, change management, and project management is crucial because it’s not just about showcasing your skills but also demonstrating how you fit into the culture of the organization.”

Highlighting Relevant Skills and Experience

When crafting a resume, it’s important to highlight relevant skills and experiences prominently. Tayla advises, “If you’re a software developer, make sure relevant skills like Java are highlighted.” Additionally, providing a brief description of the companies you’ve worked for, especially if they’re not well-known, can add context and make your resume stand out.

Aligning Job Titles

Job titles can vary significantly between sectors. Suki suggests aligning your job title with industry standards to ensure your resume comes up in searches. “Consider the job titles, as they can vary between government and the private sector,” she says.

Client-Specific Requirements

Specificity and Personal Connection

In recent weeks, clients have become more specific about their requirements, emphasizing the importance of a tailored approach. “It’s not just a tick and flick anymore. They want to feel a connection with the resume, and the way you present it can make a difference,” says Tayla. The visual appeal and wording of your resume matter, creating a feeling when the client looks at it.

Providing Feedback and Assistance

Both Suki and Tayla offer to help candidates refine their resumes. They stress the importance of getting feedback from a third party, even a friend, to improve your resume’s effectiveness. “If anyone wants feedback or assistance, they can reach out to us on LinkedIn or through our website,” says Suki.

Conclusion

Navigating the current job market requires a strategic approach. Tailoring your resume to highlight relevant skills and aligning with specific job requirements is crucial. Understanding the importance of cultural fit and being aware of the increased selectivity in hiring can help you stand out. For personalized feedback and additional resources, don’t hesitate to reach out to Suki and Tayla.

Key Takeaways

• Clients Are More Selective Post-COVID:

  Clients are becoming more discerning about the candidates they interview and shortlist. This trend underscores the importance of tailored resumes that highlight relevant skills and experiences.

• Tailoring Resumes Is Crucial:

  Having multiple tailored resumes for different positions and highlighting relevant skills are essential strategies. Providing context about previous employers and aligning job titles with industry standards can make your resume stand out.

• Importance of Cultural Fit:

  In addition to skills, cultural fit is crucial for securing a job. Tailoring your resume to reflect both your technical competencies and how you fit into the company culture can enhance your chances of success.

If you have a burning topic you’d like to discuss, don’t hesitate to reach out at hello@montagu.com.au.

Join the conversation Today!

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Welcome to Season Three of “Conversations that Connect,” featuring the dynamic duo, Suki and Tayla from Montague Group. As we dive into the third season, we’re ready to kick off 2024 with a bang. Let’s explore what’s on our minds today and set the stage for an exciting year ahead.

Setting Ambitious Goals

Suki: We’re starting off with a bang – two boom boards, to be precise. One for the business side of life and another for the personal journey.

Tayla: Absolutely, Suki! Big vision boards that resonate with the sound of bullets hitting their mark. We’re leveling up this year, setting ambitious goals for the business, clients, candidates, and of course, our own personal growth. It’s all about staying focused, kicking procrastination to the curb, and getting things done.

Suki: Love it! So, Tayla, spill the beans. What’s your approach to these vision boards?

Tayla: Vision boards are my jam, especially at the start of the year. They ignite a fire in me, mapping out what I want my year to look like. This year, it’s all about CEO confidence – no more holding back. I’ve got two mottos to live by: “Confidence is high; no one will question me,” and “Progress, not perfection.” As a notorious perfectionist, I’ve learned that progress fuels success more than aiming for perfection ever could.

Naomi: Absolutely, Tayla! Accountability is key. What’s the second motto?

Tayla: The second one is a bit subtler – “Progress, not perfection.” As a perfectionist, I’ve often let the pursuit of flawlessness hinder my progress. This year, it’s all about taking small steps every day, embracing the journey, and appreciating the lessons along the way.

Suki: I resonate with that, Tayla. Progress is progress, no matter how small. It’s all about the journey and the 1% improvement each day.

Embracing a Positive Energy Shift

Tayla: Speaking of last year, we tackled the challenges with a “slight edge” mentality, putting in the hard work day by day. The energy this year feels different – lighter, more positive. We’ve missed that vibe.

Suki: Three years of heavy energy, and now we’re ready for the shift. 2024, here we come!

Tayla: Absolutely! New year, new vibes, new environments. I’m stepping into uncharted territories, embracing change, and elevating my role within the business.

Suki: You’ve been rocking it, Tayla! It’s not stepping into the unknown; it’s owning it with confidence.

Tayla: True that, Suki! And beyond the professional, we’re spicing things up in the podcast. Sharing what we’re learning, reading, watching – adding a personal touch to the business talk.

Suki: Exactly! Because life isn’t always sunshine and roses, right? We want you to see the authentic us, the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

Authentic Connections and Real Moments

Tayla: Whether it’s celebrating victories or sending a “thinking of you” message on LinkedIn, we’re here for the real, heartfelt connections.

Suki: So buckle up, listeners! 2024 is full of big plans, authentic moments, and a fire in our bellies. Bring it on!

Tayla: We can’t wait to share this exciting journey with you. Let’s make 2024 the best one yet!

Conclusion

Starting 2024 with a BOOM is about setting ambitious goals, embracing a positive energy shift, and fostering authentic connections. As Suki and Tayla embark on this new season, they are ready to share their journey, insights, and personal growth with you. Stay tuned for more episodes filled with real moments, practical advice, and heartfelt connections. Let’s make 2024 a year to remember!

Key Takeaways

• Set Ambitious Goals with Vision Boards:

  Creating vision boards for business and personal growth helps set a clear direction for the year. Embrace CEO confidence and focus on progress over perfection.

• Embrace Positive Energy Shifts:

  After years of heavy energy, 2024 brings a lighter, more positive vibe. Step into new roles and environments with confidence, and embrace change as an opportunity for growth.

• Foster Authentic Connections:
  

  Authenticity in business and personal interactions fosters real, heartfelt connections. Celebrate victories, support each other, and share genuine moments to build a strong, supportive community.

If you have a burning topic you’d like to discuss, don’t hesitate to reach out at hello@montagu.com.au.

Join the conversation Today!

click on the button to see a full list of posts from our Conversations that Connect deep dives!