Behavioral Competencies Supporting Leaders’ Motherhood and Career Progression

This study identifies the behavioral competencies that mothers in leadership positions employ to effectively manage both their professional and personal roles. Specifically, we investigate the actions that women in career report to be necessary for effectively balancing motherhood alongside a career path. By highlighting these behaviors, we challenge stereotypes associated with diminished performance among working mothers and offer new perspectives for recognizing the competency profiles of leaders who are also mothers. The research explores parallels between effective behaviors in both parenting and high-level professional roles. We interviewed 36 women leaders who shared their experiences about their career trajectories and motherhood journeys. Participants described situations where they successfully managed their dual roles as leaders and mothers. Our analyses identified ten behavioral competencies that participants demonstrated to be effective in motherhood with direct application to their professional role. Results indicate that the ability to seek external support emerged as the most critical competence for successful performance in both domains. Time management and practical organizational skills emerged as the other most prevalent competencies demonstrated to be effective in both motherhood and leadership roles. This research opens new perspectives for developing training programs that mentor and value parents pursuing career advancement.