We definitely need more companies who provide flexi options to moms: Nisha Singhania

We, at Adgully, have always saluted and honoured women managers and leaders across diverse fields. Over the years, W-SUITE, a special initiative from Adgully, has been turning the spotlight on some of the most remarkable women achievers in the M&E, Advertising, Marketing, PR and Communications industry.

On the occasion of Mother’s Day this year, Adgully has come up with a month-long special series saluting the Moms in the Agency business. The series will explore how successful women leaders, who are also mothers, are achieving work-life balance, and are also creating an inclusive work environment so that the mothers in their teams can work to their full potential.

In conversation with Adgully, Nisha Singhania, Co-Founder & Director, Infectious Advertising, speaks about how she maintains work-life balance as a woman leader and mother, how workplaces have appreciated and helped working mothers, and much more.

As a woman leader, how do you manage to maintain a work-life balance as a working mom? What tips would you give to other working mothers who are struggling to manage their work and personal life?

It’s a tough one. I have seen maximum women drop out from work, post becoming moms. The most critical factor is to get a sound support system in place. Ideally family, else someone you can really count on. Also, be absolutely upfront with your organisation about your situation and the kind of work style that’s suitable to you. An empathetic organisation will find a way to make it work for you.

How do you deal with “mommy guilt” while working and how do you balance your personal and professional life while being a mother? Can you share some personal experiences?

‘Mommy Guilt’ is imposed on you by other people. It can often be complete strangers. What bothered me a lot was when people heard I was a working mom, they referred to my son as ‘poor thing’! It made my blood boil. Put a stop to it and don’t let this get into your head.

My submission – you cannot be at both places and often have to take a call – do what you think is important and then don’t let anyone else guilt trip you – be it at work or home. Do not be defensive or think less of yourself because you could not attend some important meeting.

Could you share your experience of returning to work after maternity leave? What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them? What changes would you like to see in the workplace to support working mothers?

That was the toughest part. You are mentally split – when at home you think about what you’re missing at work and at work you’re worried about your child. Luckily for me, I had my Mom as my biggest support system. She was the one who actually pushed me to return to work. I think today organisations are far more open and thanks to Covid, WFH options exist. But we definitely need more companies who provide flexi options to moms.

How has being a mother impacted your leadership style and decision-making as a woman leader? Have you noticed any positive changes in your leadership skills since becoming a mother?

Your EQ increases. You are more mindful of other people’s situations and would try to work solutions that suit them.

What steps has your company taken to support and empower working mothers, and how do you ensure that mothers are not discriminated against in the workplace?

At Infectious, we are extremely supportive of moms, in fact, we actively hire young mothers as this is something very close to our hearts. You can get some brilliant talent if you can just work out a solution that is comfortable to both. Since everyone’s situation is different, we ask them what’s an ideal work situation they want and accommodate that. Everyone in the team is aligned on the situation so that they do not face any discrimination. Also, humanise it, we welcome parents (moms and dads) to bring their children to work. It’s a great break for everyone and brings a happy vibe to the office.

How can other companies follow suit to create a more inclusive workplace for working mothers? What are the best global practices you have come across in this regard?

Be fair. Put yourselves in their shoes and then make decisions. Treat them the way you would want to be treated.