America’s Most Wanted

Although the concept of work/life balance escapes most of us, a recent trend in Corporate America is shaping the way employers view their workforce. Over the years, many highly-skilled women abruptly exited the workforce; conversely, due to popular demand, many are making a much more graceful return. According to Workforce Management, “Thirty-seven percent of highly qualified women and 43% of women with children have left the workforce for a period of time. Ninety-three percent of them want to return to their careers.”

Upon return; however, women are calling the shots and stating upfront that a 16-hour workday is no longer feasible. Flexibility is paramount, and employers are willing to accept a 3-4 day schedule just to acquire and retain top female talent. Interestingly, there is the perception that women generally leave the workforce to tend to their families, but studies indicate that women leave because they feel underappreciated by their employer. Imagine that….underappreciated!

Another critical issue that has caused companies to focus on obtaining women professionals is the impact it has on attracting new female talent out of business school. New recruits and fresh graduates look to see women in higher ranking senior positions and are less attracted to those companies that have diminishing numbers of women at the top. Furthermore, the number of professional women with professional degrees is expected to grow by 16% compared to 1.3% for men over the next decade.

Whether you decide to return to work, be an entrepreneur or a domestic goddess, realize that the choice is yours. Women are greatly desired in Corporate America as well as the home front. For more information about this topic, check out the latest issue of Workforce Management magazine featuring the story “Winning Women Back.” You can find them online at www.workforce.com.

To all of America’s original “Most Wanted”…stay connected!