How the Indian IT Industry is helping mothers return happily to their jobs

National Association of Software and Services companies (NASSCOM) has been trying to enhance diversity and inclusivity in the IT sector, aiming to build a robust ecosystem for new mothers returning to their jobs. For this purpose, it has launched a report titled ‘Facilitating Returnships: Providing Infrastructure to Returning Mothers’, in partnership with MERCER, a premier human resources consulting firm.

The report showcases the IT-BPM industry’s willingness to support new mothers who wish to return to their jobs, and focuses on the impact that a good provision of child care in office could have.

A survey and discussions with 100+ companies who have child care practices was the basis of the report, as per which organizations in the IT sector want to provide a favourable environment to returning mothers. This is either being done through extending maternity leaves, flexi timings, crèches inside offices or shared services facilities.

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As per the report, underutilization of female talent is a critical business issue, since organizations that have diverse management teams are able to make better business decisions, having more viewpoints.

The report also highlights six check points for IT companies, so that women can have more representation, viz.

1. Passionate Leadership

2. Personal Commitment

3. Perseverance

4. Proof

5. Processes

6. Programs

Also read: Citibank provides a smashing new childcare policy that all mothers will be super happy about

Global studies indicate that corporations that have at least 10% women on boards have higher returns on equity, almost 2.5-5% higher than others. Apart from this, firms where women are at least 30% of C-Suite are 15% more profitable than others. Not only this, gender diverse teams also perform significantly better than more homogenous teams.