The importance of a supportive spouse

They say behind every successful man is a supportive wife but in today’s world, the reverse also holds true. There is also a perceptible change in the mindset of men who are encouraging their better halves to get back to work after the birth of a baby. Companies are also realising the importance of giving a fresh start to women after a break. Neha Bagaria, Founder and CEO, JobsForHer, which is a connecting platform for women re-starters opines, “If you are a married woman looking to restart her career after a break, the support from your spouse goes a long way in keeping you mentally and emotionally grounded, while you look for a job all over again. It's not just important to get your husband’s cooperation, but to see the pride and joy in his eyes as he sees his wife succeed in her career. 

Husbands have come to respect their wives for who they are and what they do, and not just for their roles as a wife, mother, and daughter-in-law. As more and more women get back to the workforce after a career break, the unconditional support from their husbands is their main driving force.” 

Purba Kalita, CEO of Salebhai.com, an e-commerce platform, shares her views. “The woman has long supported the man. She takes charge of the entire house, allowing him to chart his career growth. While hers is an unpaid and endless job, he earns his salary and also time off from work. But the man now has to keep up with the times. The woman has aspirations beyond the home and opportunities are opening up for her. She looks for the same support. After all, the house and family are a shared responsibility. SaleBhai has been sending out a positive message by encouraging women talent and retaining them. 

Purba adds, “Around 60% of our workforce comprises women. When you have policies that allow work from home and flexi-hours, women are naturally empowered. “Purba roots for gender sensitization programmes within the organization to open up a dialogue between male and female employees as to how husbands can better assist at home and encourage their wives to continue their career — from sharing kitchen chores to taking up diaper duty.