Women in the Workplace: Kristen Quinn

Kristen Quinn, director of public relations at Paige PR, recently sat down with our team to answer a few questions about juggling motherhood and work/life balance in today’s crazy world. Kristen is not only an absolute rock star to her clients, but she is a dedicated, hardworking mother of three young boys under the age of 6!  Kristen is full of wonderful advice for working moms and has even previously shared her journey with the Houston Business Journal.

Give us 3 fun facts about yourself.

1. My favorite pastime is skiing – which was challenging to do when I lived in Houston, which we did for 10 wonderful years.

2. I’m currently obsessed with watching Top Chef. There’s a contestant from Milford, NH who I’m rooting for. I currently call Bedford, NH home.

3. A tarot card reader told me I should take my job with Paige PR. I’m so glad I followed her advice! I’m been here now for four years.

What is the most challenging aspect of being a mom and specifically a working mom?

I have to say that first year was the hardest. I had big time Mom guilt dropping Cole off at daycare while I went to work. He started going right when my maternity leave ended after three months. If I had to stay late at work I also felt like I wanted to cry. It took me a while to realize that he wasn’t counting the minutes until I came to pick him up – he was a newborn and happily would sleep anywhere there was a swing or crib. In 2019 I had my twin boys, Sam and Rhodes. We waited to put them into daycare, opting for a nanny during the first six months, because they were born early at 28 weeks. Luckily, after 54 days in the NICU they came home to us and have continued to get bigger and stronger ever since. They are also in daycare now, five days a week, allowing me to fully devote myself to my client work during the workday.

What is the most rewarding aspect of being a working mother? 

While I’m absolutely obsessed with my children, I do appreciate the fact that I’m not with them all day, every day. Don’t get me wrong, I completely respect stay-at-home moms, but respectfully, it’s just not for me. Plus, I’m also obsessed with public relations. I’ve worked hard to get where I am today in my career and I’m proud of the work I do for my clients. In my opinion, it’s the best of both worlds to be a mom and have a rewarding career.

Are there any suggestions / recommendations that you would give to companies that may help them in supporting those who are working moms within their organization?

The pandemic forced many companies to allow their employees to work remotely. While not every job can be done from home, I think employers should provide all employees (working moms, dads, pet parents!) with an opportunity to work at least some days from home. It’s great to not need to commute and I’m able to throw in a load of laundry between Zoom calls. For those who are still skeptical, here’s a thought. Why would you hire someone that you don’t trust? If someone isn’t getting their work done, that will become apparent very quickly.

Any advice you want to share with moms out there (stay-at-home or working mom)?

Don’t feel guilty for taking care of your needs. Ultimately you’ll be a better mom to your kiddos. Also, try to be in the moment. As they say, the days are long, but the years are short.