| Delinda
Hawkins
A WorkLife case study
 Delinda
Hawkins joined RSM McGladrey’s Galesburg, Ill., office nine
years ago as a tax associate. Tax work is demanding, especially
during the “busy season” of January 15 through April
15. It’s not uncommon to find tax professionals working upwards
of 60-hour weeks. Balancing the needs of a demanding job and a family
can be challenging.
In 2000, when
Hawkins had her first child, she asked the managing director of
tax to consider an alternative work plan. She wanted to work a 45-hour
week schedule during the busy season, but during the nine remaining
months of the year work just three days – Tuesday through
Thursday. Five years and two children later, Hawkins and her managers
couldn’t be happier.
“Delinda
is the poster child for successful flexible work arrangements,”
said Debbie O’Neill, the HR director of Hawkins’ regional
office. “She knows how to prioritize her work in such a way
that she always meets her deadlines and keeps our clients satisfied,
and yet still has quality time with her two-year-old and five-year-old.”
“Communication
is the key to success,” said Hawkins. “It’s important
to keep my managers and team members informed on the status of projects
so things keep moving ahead on the days I’m out.”
Working the flexible
arrangement has not hindered Hawkins’ chance for promotion.
Since starting the schedule, she has advanced to tax supervisor,
overseeing the work of several other tax professionals and a growing
client list.
“Clients
are intrigued with my work arrangement,” said Hawkins. “Many
of them are parents themselves, and they think it’s admirable
of RSM McGladrey to help its people enjoy a meaningful WorkLife.”
|
