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School Holiday Madness!
School Holiday Madness (The secret of running a full time business whilst being a full time mum!)
Of course everything in life is a juggle, however as a full time mum and the owner of my own recruitment business, multi tasking takes on a whole new meaning, especially during school holidays. With February Half Term just around the corner I am already making my plan.
So how do parents like me do it without
- Going insane
- Losing their business momentum and
- Continuing to have fun with their special little darlings?
It is a challenge! I won’t lie! So I have drawn up a MUST do list to help others:
- The most important thing is to know your own limitations. Don’t over commit on social engagements when you know that you may end up letting people down. Even cooking meals for guests- delegate courses out to each family coming (and don’t forget the wine!)
- Make daily to dolists – Work and social ones. That way you can get the work done that, a) will earn you money, b) ensure you maintain the commitment of your clients and candidates and c) ensure you can follow up as an action point. For your social to do list, you mustn’t forget little Joe’s tea party or the day at the zoo you promised your kids.
- Compensate your time away from the kids with extra special days/time with them which ensures the quality aspect. It doesn’t have to cost a fortune either. Have a supper date – take a picnic to the park after work and eat with them on the rug- kids love that- and then get in the bath with them, snuggle up in PJ’s and watch a DVD with them. It’s all about a little extra effort when you have less time than normal.
- Pre-book your childcare well in advance and ensure they have clothes for all weathers, waterproofs, sun cream, spending money etc, so you know the little treasures are having as much fun with gran/auntie/childminder as they would with you!
- Get the kids (if they are old enough) to do a holiday diary of what they got up while you were at work. DON’T feel guilty- this allows them to record positively what they did and it encourages them to tell you what otherwise you may never hear about!
- Use local football/dance/kids clubs if they are in your area. A great fun way for your kids to spend their time a little differently. You usually get a local leaflet sent home in the kids school bags in July of all the events and clubs coming up. Check online websites like mumsnet are useful too.
- Get a cleaner. Point made
- Do your chores/washing etc in the evening or when kids are in the bath!
- Send your emails/LinkedIn/BranchOut invites etc in the evening when they are in bed. Send any non urgent email in the evening. Make your actual work time count on the phone and with urgent emails/info needed.
- Be honest with your clients and candidates. I have ALWAYS. So has Jo.
- ENJOY without guilt. Remember, you never regret spending more time with your kids. They grow up SO fast ☹
- When you are in work, be in work. When you are with the kids, be a parent. Best rule ever! We don’t pretend to be sat at our desks 12 hours a day normally- but we are always available to speak to recruiters/recruitment managers and directors at any time.
I hope that helps. If anyone wants to click through to LinkedIn and join my dedicated group, Working Mums in Recruitment, I will add you with pleasure as we are always sharing ideas and stories which helps all of us!
You can follow Lysha: Twitter – @QuiRecruitment @LyshaHolmes Facebook QuiRecruitment
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About the author
Name: Lysha Holmes of Qui Recruitment
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Website: http://www.quirecruitment.com/
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