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		Ask the Expert: Finding Balance Natalie Gahrmann is a success coach and owner of N-R-G Coaching Associates, a private coaching company that specializes in helping working parents achieve mastery of work and life. Her clients experience more clarity, direction and alignment while reducing stress in their busy lives. Flexible Work Options Kira writes, "Are there careers that are generally more flexible for balancing work and parenthood? I'm contemplating a career switch, but want to give serious thought to careers that generally provide more options for flex-time, part-time, telecommuting options, etc. than a regular office career (where the only real concession to parenthood is the short-term maternity leave)." Answer: Don't be fooled! Many 'regular' office careers do offer flexibility. More depends on the company, the position, and your immediate supervisor. If your current employer is relatively inflexible, it may not be necessary to switch careers to gain more options. If you enjoy your work, seek out family-friendly companies and positions that lend themselves to greater flexibility. Positions that require face-to-face interactions or specific coverage times may not be suitable for your needs. You may decide to seek a home-based job. In a home-based job you are considered an independent contractor and not an employee. The company that contracts you requires certain projects be completed in a given time frame. This work can be done for companies that have a heavy work overload, no web presence, a need for medical or legal transcription, sales personnel or recruiting help. Another good option for you may be a home-based business. In a home-based business you work independently and control most of your decisions, priorities and time. You pay yourself based on the work that is completed and/or the products and services sold. The opportunities for running a home-based business continue to grow. Many people have run successful home-based secretarial, web design, bookkeeping, training, and other types of service-based businesses. If these options interest you, search the web and you'll find many interesting prospects. Pat Katepoo has an excellent article on BlueSuitMom about exploring flexible work options. Click here to read it Also see: • Ask Natalie a question • More Q&A • If you're interested in work/life coaching, you can reach Natalie at (908) 281-7098 or via email		Search BlueSuitMom.com Email this page to a friend    C a r e e r   C o r n e r • In a Man's World • Professional Organizations • Company Seminars • Career Archive • Small Business Advice • Online Job Search • Entrepreneur's Corner • Sign Up For Our Newsletter Ask an Expert • Image Consultant • Career Coach • Work/Life Coach • Business Coach • Work at Home • Professional Organizer • Emotional Wellness • Business Advisor    C a r e e r   P o l l What is the most important benefit your employer can offer you? Flexible work hours Extended hours/shortened work week Job sharing Telecommuting On-site daycare Take home meals On site dry cleaning View results
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