Why Working Moms Need Support Systems (and how to build yours)

Recently, I was invited to speak on the Moms that Lead podcast, where I had a wonderful conversation with host Teri Schmidt. We talked a lot about connection, the importance of a woman’s network (personally and professionally), and I shared some of my personal stories where having this network really helped when I was navigating some challenging situations. 

One of her questions I wanted to hone in on was around the power of a women’s network. So often, especially young moms, find themselves turning inwards as the responsibilities of caring for children seem to preoccupy much of their time: personal friendships and networking often take a backseat to going to bed early. And while I am super guilty of this, I also know you can’t accomplish anything in life by yourself: that is, without a support system.

First, in a professional context, there are a few benefits to networking. 

• Building a rapport at work. I’ve written previously about not keeping yourself in a silos. Especially on your first day, make an effort to reach out to and get to know each of your coworkers. You do not want to have a first conversation with someone when you need something from them. Offer to buy them coffee, ask what projects they run or their role that the company: you may be inspired on ways you can work together or help each other out. 

• Virtual Networking. The pandemic has normalized connecting virtually to expand your network, a godsend for working moms who struggle with attending in-person networking events. Check out sites like Lunch Club, who will pair you with like-minded people to discuss things you have in common on your time. Taking an hour a week to do this will incrementally increase your network over time, and you never know where a connection will lead!

Second, in the personal sense, you need to prioritize building a support system: 

• The Village Mindset. I wish someone had explained the importance of finding, building and nurturing that village around you when I had my first baby. Especially if you are looking to advance in your career, you need to have the structure of a support system in place that you can fall back on when your children get sick, need to go to doctor’s appointments, or the daycare closes unexpectedly.

• Your Partner Should Be Supportive. While I have a network of my parents, neighbors and past babysitters, I can’t emphasize enough the importance of your partner. I know I struggle with wanting to do everything on my own when it comes to my kids, but my career shouldn’t suffer because of that. And our partners are usually more than happy to step up, so ask them! Maybe they could take the day off from work, or they could leave early to take them to a doctor’s appointment when you have a budget meeting you can’t miss. 

I hope this was helpful, and that you check out the full podcast here: Leadership Doesn't Have to Be Lonely: Inspiration Episode with Ashley McManus