While the comedy film Baby Boom is primarily a heart-warming tale of a career-driven woman thrust into motherhood, it also offers profound lessons on recruitment, workplace dynamics, and the pursuit of professional success for the wonderful Diane Keaton.
Diane Keaton's J.C. Wiatt: From Burnout to Business Brilliance 💪
J.C. Wiatt, portrayed by Diane Keaton, is a high-powered, career-focused executive who suddenly finds herself with a baby and at odds with her fast-paced life. Her journey is a case study in recruitment lessons that resonates even today.
1. The Burnout Syndrome:
J.C.'s initial predicament is all too familiar in today's workplace - burnout!
She's a seasoned senior executive with a hectic lifestyle, grappling with the challenges of balancing career ambitions and personal life.
Many professionals (Not just those at the Executive level) can relate to the toll that burnout can take on your career and well-being.
2. Unexpected Career Pivot:
J.C.'s life takes an unexpected turn when she inherits a baby and decides to embrace motherhood. Whilst this is unlikely to happen, it still highlights some of the issues parents face today.
Her decision to step away from her high-flying corporate job in pursuit of a simpler life reflects the changing priorities of individuals in the modern workforce.
The desire and need to 'Get away from it all' and the calling of a quieter and calmer life, followed by FOMO and regret in some instances.
The farm JC buys and moves to has been the catalyst for a dream of mine since I first watched this film at the age of about 8.
3. The Power of Entrepreneurship:
J.C. transforms her life by starting her own baby food business. Through the boredom and the never-ending apples from her orchard, JC didn't want them to go to waste so decided to keep herself occupied by making baby apple sauce.
She started to sell a few jars in local stores and soon she caught herself back in the business mindset.
This entrepreneurial endeavor showcases her adaptability, innovation, and determination to succeed in a new field—an inspiring testament to the power of reinvention.
4. The Boomerang Effect:
As J.C.'s business takes off and achieves remarkable success, her former bosses, who once dismissed her new lifestyle, suddenly come knocking, seeking her expertise.
This "boomerang effect" highlights the value of talented individuals and the consequences of overlooking them.
When JC needed their support and understanding, she didn't receive it. When she proved them wrong and she had something they wanted, they came knocking - with bells on!
Much like a counteroffer when you hand in your notice - Too little, too late
5. Peer and Boss Behavior:
The film portrays various reactions from J.C.'s peers, colleagues, and bosses.
Some scoff at her choices, while others, like her partner, Ken, are supportive. This spectrum of responses reflects the diversity of attitudes you may encounter in the workplace and the importance of finding a company that will value you for WHO you are and help you find your path instead of forcing you in to their company-shaped box.
This film was set in the 80s and yes things have moved on since then but I feel some of the prejudice still exists.
I speak with candidates who have taken time out to be with their children and raise them and find it difficult to re-enter the workplace but their transferable skills are overlooked.
UK-Based Statistics on Parents in the Workplace
To shed light on the challenges parents face in the workplace, consider these UK-based statistics:
According to a 2020 report by the charity Working Families, 63% of parents have experienced burnout due to the struggle of balancing work and family life.
A survey by the Equalities and Human Rights Commission found that 77% of mothers and 70% of fathers have experienced negative treatment at work related to parental leave and flexible working requests.
Research by the Trades Union Congress (TUC) reveals that women with dependent children earn nearly 40% less than men with children.
In Conclusion
"Baby Boom" may be a comedy, but its underlying themes are highly relevant to the challenges and opportunities in today's workplace.
J.C. Wiatt's journey from burnout to entrepreneurial success reminds us of the importance of adaptability, the value of unconventional career paths, and the need for workplace support for parents.
Although filmed in 1987, we have come a long way but some prejudice still remains. It's great that some companies offer much more support for their staff and flexible / Hybrid / Remote working is more prevalent now making it easier for working parents.
The film helps us to reflect on how we perceive and support individuals who choose alternative career trajectories, how far we have come and I am sure there are scenes in this film that you can relate to.