I spent about 30 minutes on the phone yesterday with potential client.

I asked him detailed questions about his business, his projections and his websites. We discussed web traffic, lead generation, marketing and other areas related to where my services could aid in his business growth.

As we wrapped up the conversation, I let him know I would be putting together my recommendations and pricing in a proposal and would send within the next few days. 

As we were about to hang up, he informed me he is a dad and told me about his children (gender, ages, etc.). I shared the same info about my own kids and we had about 2-3 minutes of that type of personal conversation (after a phone call that had been “all business”).

We were really at the end of the discussion when he told me something that stopped me in my tracks: ”I am partial to stay-at-home moms, so I really hope we can work together.”

HUH?!

Where on earth did he get the impression I was a stay-at-home mom? I run one of the top companies in the U.S. in my area of expertise. I run this business 8, 10 or 12 horus a day, every day, and have for years.

Yes, I am a mom. Yes, my office is located in my home (I rarely meet clients in person, so do not need a showy outside office). But a stay-at-home mom? That is something I am not. (Not that there’s anything wrong with it…..)  

I wonder if one woman (or mom) would say such a thing to another woman (or mom). I doubt it. It does make me question myself — is there something I am doing (or not) that gives off that “this is my side gig” or ”I am a stay-at-home mom playing at a job when I have a free hour or two” vibe.

I don’t have the answers, but it sure makes me think.  

This was an Anonymous post to the WorkingMomLifeline.com blog.

Filed under: Fabulous Guest Bloggers, working moms, working mothers