Recently, I learned that one of my valued employees (Alex), who is out on maternity leave, has decided it is difficult to manage the new baby (Renee), home and work so work has somewhat lost out...at least for the time being. We are all saddened by not having her positive presence on a daily basis but have been able to work out a mutual arrangement whereby she can retain her employment and work part time from home. I think this is mutually beneficial and might I also add, I think the clients will appreciate her dedication to each of them.
While Alex begins to learn about and balance the role of motherhood, wife, employee, daughter, sister, aunt and all those positions, she will remain an integral part of our extended team. This is not the first time, nor do I suspect the last that we will have to demonstrate flexibility with our team members, but it is the first time I am sharing in a public forum such as our blog.
Employees are the heart, the core of any company and when you find good ones, those with loyalty, enthusiasm, willingness to learn and those that go the extra mile, you want to be as helpful as you possibly can with them when they are struggling. And usually you will see the entire team band together to be supportive as well.
This is not only good business but it is also good for the heart and soul of the individuals impacted and of the company. We are no longer in an environment where tenure is enough to keep someone employed. So for those that stand up, get noticed, stretch beyond their comfort zone, I will cheer you on forever and be there for you.
So folks stretch yourselves and make sure your employers notice all that you are doing above and beyond because you just never know when you will need to have some flexibility to get you through something expected or unexpected.
We will miss Alex's smile but our hearts remain full knowing she will be returning one day (soon we all hope).
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