Veronica Anthony FCIPD’s Post

🌟𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐫 👩💻 & 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 🤱 : 𝐄𝐦𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐁𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐭𝐡🌟 Returning to work after maternity leave can be a transformative experience—especially when you're in a fast-paced, constantly evolving field like IT. It’s a journey of reintegration, reflection, and embracing change. Here are some thoughts 🤔 I’ve had as I’ve reentered the tech world after a time away and a few insights I’ve learned along the way: 💻 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘐𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘍𝘭𝘦𝘹𝘪𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺: The industry offers incredible opportunities for remote work and flexible hours. Embracing these options has allowed me to continue making meaningful contributions to my team while also being there for my family when they need me most. 🤝 𝘚𝘶𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬 𝘌𝘯𝘷𝘪𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘔𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳: A workplace that values work-life balance can make all the difference. I’m grateful to be part of an organization Provar that understands the unique needs of working parents and fosters an environment where I can thrive both professionally and personally. 💡 𝘈 𝘚𝘶𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘚𝘺𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘮 𝘪𝘴 𝘌𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘢𝘭: I’m incredibly thankful for the network of 𝘔𝘢𝘯𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘳, 𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘴, 𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘨𝘶𝘦𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘺 who have supported me through both career transitions and motherhood. 🎯 𝘍𝘰𝘤𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘯 𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘔𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘔𝘰𝘴𝘵: Coming back to work after maternity leave has also given me a new perspective on my career. I’m more intentional about setting boundaries, prioritizing work that aligns with my goals To all the parents returning to work after maternity leave, 𝘣𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘺 — It’s a journey that can be full of surprises, growth, and sometimes difficult choices. But with the right support, mindset, and resilience, you can thrive both as a professional and a parent. You are stronger and more capable than you think. Every day you are paving the way for future generations, showing that it’s possible to excel in both career and motherhood.🌱 Let’s continue to break down barriers, support each other🎯, and lift each other up in our professional journeys! 💪💻👶 #Provar #ReturningToWork #MaternityLeave #WomenInTech #WorkLifeBalance #WorkingParents #CareerGrowth #MomsInTech

I'm off work for 6 weeks! Including a 2-week digital detox from Monday. No emails. No calls. No social media. Why? Because I built my business to work on my terms. For me, that means term time only, school hours only work, while I need it. It brings me joy to have: 💞 33 current clients creating their own futures 🙌 A team of 4 brilliant women building lives that work for them Because when the working world stops working for you, it's up to you to create your future. Yes, it might mean years of delayed gratification. But now: ✅ I work flexible hours ✅ I earn more than before ✅ I make a real difference This holiday isn't just a break. It's a celebration of what I've built. To my clients: Everything's set up to support you while I'm away. To fellow entrepreneurs: This is your reminder to stop and celebrate everything you've built. Who's with me? 🎉

Struggling to use your PTO effectively? Let's strategize for a guilt-free break. Check the post and comment 'BEGIN' for steps on how we can work together.

𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗔𝗿𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗱? During my corporate career with #philips, I constantly apologized for working part-time because of my boys. Despite often putting in more effort and hours than some full-time employees, I always felt the need to justify my situation. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I took a break to support my sons and found myself apologizing for being "just" a housewife and mother. Looking back, these were all learning experiences, and I can now confidently say I've outgrown the need for these apologies. Neither your life situation nor your life choices need to be justified to anyone but yourself. Recognizing this will help you feel less torn, more at peace with yourself and your decisions, and radiate that peace outwardly. Do I still question myself sometimes? Absolutely. But then, I give myself a mental pat on the back and commend myself for what I've already achieved. It's incredible how societal expectations can shape our self-perception. In the corporate world, the pressure to conform to a certain image often made me feel inadequate for prioritizing my family. However, embracing my unique path has been liberating. The notion that we need to apologize for our choices, especially as women balancing careers and family, is outdated. Every decision we make, whether it's working part-time, taking a career break, or focusing on family, is a testament to our strength and priorities. It’s about time we stop apologizing and start celebrating these choices. They reflect our values, resilience, and commitment to what matters most in our lives. Reaching a place of self-acceptance isn't easy, but it's worth it. By acknowledging our efforts and the unique paths we take, we can foster a healthier mindset. This journey involves constant self-reflection and growth. It’s okay to question ourselves as long as we also recognize our progress and achievements. Sharing our stories and supporting one another in our choices can create a powerful community of empowered individuals. We need to lift each other up, validate our experiences, and encourage a culture where no one feels the need to apologize for living authentically. To all the part-time working parents, full-time parents, and everyone in between: your journey is valid. Your choices are valid. Let’s embrace our paths without apologies. After all, true success is being at peace with who we are and the decisions we make. Stay strong, stay true to yourself, and remember to give yourself credit for all you’ve accomplished. 🌟 #worklifebalance #personalgrowth #empowerment #parenting #mindfullness

How's this for good timing? In a few weeks, I'll write about my third anniversary of working at Multiverse. (You'll need to hold your excitement a little longer for that! 😁) Ahead of that, we have recently scored a perfect 10/10 for Transparency by The Work Index, powered by Flexa, a ranking based on millions of data points from over 16,000 companies. (The link for more info is in the comments.) 🏆 How did we score this? Because I work for a company that is all about making my work-life blend seamless and enjoyable, and I am free to work where and when I want, coupled with perks that genuinely matter. Here is some data... 🔹 *Location Flexibility: * 88% – Love remote work? So do we!  🔹 *Hours Flexibility: * 75% – Shape your workday to fit your life.  🔹 *Autonomy: * 83% – You're in the driver’s seat. And the perks?: - Bupa health insurance. - Work from anywhere for up to 45 days a year - because who doesn't love a good view? - 27 days of annual leave plus bank holidays to recharge. - Free gym membership to stay fit. (okay, I don't use this, but I hear it's excellent 😁) - Enhanced sick pay so you can rest up when needed. - Two volunteer days per year to give back to causes you care about. - Generous parental leave policies to support your family journey. - Regular company shutdowns and mental health days to keep you feeling great. Finally, our values (which were (and still are) a big reason for wanting to work here): - Gender and ethnic diversity: We represent the real world. - LGBTQ+ inclusion: We welcome everyone. - Fair pay: Regularly benchmarked and above market salaries. Are you ready to shake things up? 🚀 Check us out! (The link for our open roles is in the comments, too.) #JoinUs #CareerGrowth #Diversity #MyMultiverse #CareerChange #DreamJob #WorkFlexibility

The workforce isn't made for moms. Let's change that. When I returned from mat leave in 2021, I quickly realized how different moms are treated in the workforce. Before being a mom, I was available to my employers at the drop of a dime. I was okay with working 16+ hour days with minimal breaks in between. I always got all my work done, hit deadlines, and saw great success with my marketing efforts, but it was my constant availability that employers appreciated more than anything. When I rejoined the workforce as a mom, I wasn't available 24/7. I immediately set strict boundaries with my schedule so I could maintain some work/life balance. I had daily commitments to my child that I had to fulfill. But one thing remained the same - I still got all my work done, hit deadlines, and saw great success with my marketing efforts. None of that seemed to matter because employers fixated on my schedule and the fact that I was no longer an individual who could run to the office at the drop of a dime. I was treated differently and despite my work ethic and capabilities, my desire to maintain work-life balance and have a family was seen as disruptive. Fast forward to 2024. I'm the CMO and Co-Owner of Montgomery 30 Marketing. It is one of my biggest goals as a business owner to create an environment where individuals are not ridiculed for having lives outside of the workspace. Where no one feels like their passions and responsibilities outside of work are a hindrance. Where no one feels like they need to give up aspects of their lives or feel guilty for them. Rejoining the workforce as a mom was the hardest thing I've ever done, but being in a leading role now allows me to shift the narrative. #momsatwork #workingmom #advocate Moms at Work

The Changing Landscape of Work: Opportunities for Older Professionals As we navigate through the evolving dynamics of the modern workplace, it's becoming increasingly clear that the landscape of work is changing. This evolution presents a unique set of opportunities, especially for older professionals who bring a wealth of experience and wisdom to the table. Let's explore why this moment in time could be a golden opportunity for seasoned veterans in the workforce. 1. Remote Work Flexibility: The rise of remote work has leveled the playing field, allowing older professionals to compete on equal footing. The flexibility to work from anywhere can be particularly appealing to those seeking to balance work with other life commitments, or simply those who prefer the comfort of their home office. 2. Increased Demand for Soft Skills: As automation and artificial intelligence take over routine tasks, there's a growing appreciation for soft skills such as critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and leadership—areas where experienced professionals often excel. These skills are now recognized as critical for organizational success, opening doors for those who've spent years honing them. 3. Lifelong Learning and Upskilling: The commitment to lifelong learning is more critical than ever. Many older professionals are seizing the opportunity to upskill, whether through formal education or online platforms, demonstrating that adaptability isn't confined to a specific age group. This eagerness to learn keeps them relevant and competitive. 4. Advisory and Consultancy Roles: With a deep understanding of their industry, older professionals are finding niches in advisory and consultancy roles. These positions allow them to share their knowledge and expertise without the demands of a full-time job, offering a win-win for both the individual and organizations that can benefit from their experience. 5. The Entrepreneurial Edge: The trend towards entrepreneurship later in life is on the rise. Older professionals are leveraging their extensive networks, experience, and financial resources to start their own ventures, proving that it's never too late to pursue a dream or fill a niche in the market. The narrative around aging in the workforce is shifting. No longer are older professionals seen as being at a disadvantage; instead, they are recognized as valuable assets in a changing landscape. As we move forward, let's continue to embrace the diversity of age in our workplaces, recognizing the unique perspectives and skills that each generation brings to the table. #WorkforceEvolution #OlderProfessionals #CareerOpportunities #LifelongLearning #RemoteWork

Exciting news! 🌟 I'm thrilled to share that Newsweek Magazine has named Qlik one of America's Greatest Workplaces for Parents and Families for 2024. This honor is so much more than just a title. Being part of such a list is a testament to the dedication and hard work of every person here at Qlik, making our company not just about work but about family and community. It’s about those little things and knowing there’s support for those times when they're needed. We understand that life is like a mixtape – full of ups, downs, and everything in between, and this holds especially true for our parents and family crew. That’s why we strive to make Qlik not just a workplace but a support system, with policies that genuinely help that all-important balance. It is amazing to see our efforts recognized, especially as this was heavily influenced by employee feedback, with insights from thousands of working parents shining a light on their experiences in the workplace. Acknowledging the complexity of life, especially for those balancing parenthood and careers, we work diligently to create a workspace that's more than just a job – it’s a network of support. Whether it's a policy in place or a helping hand from a colleague, we recognize the importance of an environment where work and family life can coexist. We do this through offering flexible working; opportunities to learn and grow in your career; and providing benefits to support medical needs, caregiving for children and elders, supporting healthier lifestyles, and so much more. I truly believe that a supportive workplace extends its care beyond the office doors. Let's continue to not only envision an inclusive and supportive future at Qlik but to bring it to life every day through actions that support our families and each other. #Workplace #EmployeeExperience #WorkLifeBalance #Qlik #WorkplaceCulture #LifeAtQlik https://lnkd.in/eEg_9TPN

It’s not quite the kind of warning label you've seen on tobacco, alcohol, and social media, but it’s close. Perhaps you’ve seen it, the Surgeon General’s “Parents Under Pressure” Advisory. It’s a good overview of the challenges parents face today, especially those in the workforce. The ones directed at businesses could benefit from a few data points missing from the report that further complicate parenting. ✅ First, it fails to note that only 20% of families in the US today are once-married couples with kids. The remainder are single-parent, divorced, remarried couples in sometimes complicated configurations, and (as I’m glad they noted) grandparents raising grandchildren. ✅Second, it fails to note that 40% of Americans live an average of 700 miles from family, especially if they were good in STEM subjects in high school. Those who live close to family may not have support, however, because women – traditional caregivers of others – are in the workforce and less available to help. ✅Finally, it fails to note that the US has the longest workday commutes of any nation I’m glad the Advisory calls for “…flexible and fair work schedules…,” but I was disappointed it didn’t say more. This would be a perfect time to dive deeper into 4-day workweeks. I did it for my company. My only regret is that we didn’t do it years earlier. A three-day weekend allowed parents the time to manage their family obligations better. It also had another benefit I didn’t realize until later. As “knowledge workers,” we needed the mental break. The human brain and body are not built to work 40 or more hours doing the kind of policy and strategy work we did. I expected a financial hit. Not so. Our revenue doubled year-on-year for three straight years. Are you on the fence about a 4-day workweek? What questions about it or lessons learned from my experience would you like to know? #4dayworkweek #TheNetworkSage #Parenting

🌸💼 Guide for Moms Returning to the Workforce: Embrace Your Next Chapter! 💼🌸 Happy Mother's Day! Let's celebrate the incredible journey of #motherhood and #careergrowth. 🎉💪 Whether you're rejoining the workforce after a career break or transitioning back from parental leave, this guide is for you! 1️⃣ Reflect & Reconnect: Take time to reflect on your career goals and passions. Reconnect with your professional network on #LinkedIn using tools like #LinkedInSearch and start conversations with former colleagues or mentors. Utilize statistics on #LinkedInProfiles views and engagement to gauge your network's response. 2️⃣ Update Your Skills: Invest in your professional development by updating your skills. Explore online courses, webinars, or workshops using platforms like #LinkedInLearning to stay current in your field. Track your progress with statistics on course completion rates and skill endorsements. 3️⃣ Craft Your Story: Own your career journey and craft a compelling story that highlights your skills, experiences, and achievements. Showcase your strengths and the unique perspective you bring as a mom in the workplace. Use tools like #Canva to create visually appealing graphics for your profile. Measure engagement with statistics on profile views and interactions. 4️⃣ Network with Purpose: Leverage #LinkedIn to network with professionals in your industry. Join relevant groups, participate in discussions, and attend virtual events or networking meetups. Use tools like #LinkedInGroups to find communities aligned with your interests. Monitor your network growth and engagement with statistics on connections and group participation. 5️⃣ Explore Flexible Work Options: Consider flexible work arrangements that align with your lifestyle and priorities. Explore remote work opportunities, flexible schedules, or job-sharing arrangements. Advocate for work-life balance and find a company culture that values and supports working parents. Utilize statistics on productivity and work-life balance satisfaction. 6️⃣ Practice Self-Care: Prioritize self-care as you navigate the transition back to work. Set boundaries, delegate tasks, and ask for support when needed. Use tools like #Trello or #Asana to organize your tasks and manage your time effectively. Track your progress and accomplishments with statistics on task completion and time management. 7️⃣ Embrace the Journey: Embrace the journey of returning to the workforce with confidence and courage. Celebrate your achievements, learn from challenges, and remember that you're not alone on this path. Use tools like #Hootsuite to schedule your posts and stay organized on social media. Measure your social media impact with statistics on post engagement and audience growth. #WorkingMoms #CareerGrowth #ReturntoWork #Empowerment #Inclusion #ProfessionalDevelopment #WomeninBusiness #CareerTips #WorkLifeBalance #MomLife #LinkedInGuide #CareerAdvice #SelfCare #Inspiration #MothersDay