Monday Morning Punch

Published in: Baby Young Parents (edited version)
Published on: March 2010

If there was an ad for a parent in the recruitment section of a newspaper, it might read like this: "Seeking candidate with a wide variety of experience to join our fast-paced team. Willing to work in a demanding environment. Must have good communication and problem-solving skills. We offer flexible working hours and a competitive salary."

Before you send your resume, here's what the ad really means:

What the ad says => What it really means
Wide variety of experience => You'll need to do the job of at least three people, for example: cook, cleaner, guidance counselor

Join our fast paced-team => You'll hit the ground running without any training (that is, baby doesn’t come with a manual)

Good communication skills => Your boss (who else?) communicates, you figure out what to do

Problem-solving skills a must => Get ready to face total chaos

Demanding environment => Juggle different tasks dictated by your new boss, all of which are due now

Flexible working hours => Forget that lively social life you used to have

Some overtime required => Your new boss will require some of your time every night, and some of your time every weekend

Competitive salary => You work for free