DCU Business School research on post-maternity leave has found that organisations that view maternity leave as a brief interlude in a woman’s career are the most successful in retaining high potential female employees post-maternity leave. The research report just released is titled: Re-Engaging Talent Post- Maternity Leave: Enablers and Barriers to Positive Reintegration.
The research led by Dr Lisa van der Werff, Dr Yseult Freeney and Professor David Collings of the DCU Leadership and Talent Institute, and sponsored by HR Search, is the first study of its kind in Ireland. It identified the best things employers can do for their female employees after maternity leave from the perspectives of mothers, managers and organisations.
Dr Yseult Freeney said, “Our research shows that maternity leave forms a critical juncture for many women in their careers. The transition back to work is laden with challenges that can lead to career derailment when the return is not managed effectively. Fuelling this are views of maternity leave as a major disruption rather than a brief interlude, which can be conscious or unconscious. Managers who take a longer term view often signal greater support to returners who, as a result, feel more valued and are far more likely to positively reintegrate into the organisation. Ultimately, positive returns are associated with a renewed focus on careers and a strengthened relationship with the organisation.”
You can read the full research report at Re-Engaging Talent Post- Maternity Leave: Enablers and Barriers to Positive Reintegration.
