Flexibility is a feminist issue

When I set up Awe & Sonder, I knew I wanted to run a company that practiced what it preached about doing well by doing good. I was determined to address the things that frustrated me about past employment experiences. For me, as a working parent, I’ve long felt forced to choose between being present for my children and the social expectations of the workplace.

Even fellow parents I worked with often came with an I-had-to -do it-when-my kids-were-young-so-why-shouldn’t-you? attitude. I realised that running my own business meant that I had an opportunity to model the behaviours that I wanted to see. For me this means acknowledging the unequal mental load that women often shoulder and our disproportionate responsibility for the unpaid work associated with family life. And let’s not even get started on the menopause which can derail women’s careers just as we’re getting into our stride.

I’ve implemented a four-day week as standard, and created genuinely flexible work. No one has to be tied to their desk 9-5 or 8-4 or 10-6 or whatever variation on that theme that often passes for flexibility. I’m happy for the people I work with to fit their responsibilities in with their working lives. I’m focused on outcomes not time spent at the desk. And I’m determined to employ as many people as possible who would face disadvantage in the conventional job market.

And the great thing is, everyone benefits from this approach.  I put women’s experiences at the heart of what I wanted to do, but it’s making work more accessible for everyone.

We are still new and small, but I’m determined we’ll stick to these principles as we grow