How can my parenting skills help me at work?

Business Insights
31/07/2024


In the hustle and bustle of daily life, balancing the demands of work and family can be challenging. However, spending quality time with your children isn’t just beneficial for them and fun for you – it can also grow your soft skills for your professional life. In its Future of Jobs Report, the World Economic Forum said soft skills are becoming more and more essential to employers. 

Here’s how the skills you cultivate at home can help you in your career. 

Communication  

Good communication helps when you’re a parent. Explaining tough ideas in simple ways, really listening and being empathetic are essential when interacting with kids. These skills are just as important at work. Whether you’re pitching ideas, negotiating with clients or managing a team, being clear and listening well can make a huge difference. 

Patience  

Let’s be honest, kids can test your patience! Dealing with toddler tantrums, settling sibling fights and helping them learn takes Zen-like perseverance. At work, these same skills help you handle stress, stay calm in tough situations and understand your co-workers better, which helps teamwork and leadership. 

Time management 

Juggling school runs, extracurriculars and family time teaches you how to prioritise and manage your time well. Good time management is key to meeting deadlines and handling multiple projects. The skills you develop in managing family schedules can boost your productivity at work.

Problem-solving  

Kids are naturally curious and often throw unexpected challenges your way. Coming up with creative solutions to their problems and keeping them engaged with fun activities can really boost your own problem-solving skills. Creative thinking is a big plus in any job. Being able to think outside the box and tackle issues from different angles can really make you stand out at work. 

Adaptability  

Children’s unpredictable nature means you have to think on your feet and change plans quickly. Being able to adjust is essential in the modern workplace and the adaptability you learn from parenting helps you handle changes smoothly and take on new challenges with confidence. 

If you’re a parent looking for a role where you can show off your newfound skills look no further than https://www.pertemps.co.uk/jobs/