It took about a year for her colleagues to become comfortable with her arrangement, according to Slaski. But once colleagues and supervisors observed that she continued to make valuable contributions to each project, co-workers accepted the arrangement. Some have told me that they wish their spouses or children could benefit from a similar set-up. Today, FWAs are far more common in Slaski's office. Many women use them following their return from maternity leave.
Professionals take diverse approaches to their FWAs.
Whereas Slaski discloses her arrangement with clients, Parsons does not always find it necessary to mention that she uses a reduced schedule. It's not apparent to them that I'm doing anything differently. I think it's been successful because I've been flexible with them and have always made myself available to meet their needs. Lynne Lehman, Tax Services Senior Manager Lynne Lehman, a Tax Services senior manager, concurs. Clients are demanding.