Parenting is a challenging journey for many, and one aspect that often poses a dilemma is the constant pull of work. Christian Sutherland-Wong, the CEO of Glassdoor, has a unique perspective on this. He believes in setting clear boundaries and not allowing work to encroach on family time. "Glassdoor CEO's Rule - No Work Emails in Front of Kids"
Why Parents Struggle with Smartphone Use
Many parents find it difficult to put their smartphones down and fully engage with their children. A 2024 Pew Research Center report shows that 46% of teens feel their parents are at least sometimes distracted by their phones when they try to have a conversation. This struggle is not limited to teens; parents themselves are often enticed by the various apps and functions on their devices.It's not just about work emails; smartphones are used for a multitude of tasks such as scheduling playdates and managing extracurricular activities. This constant connection can make it hard for parents to be fully present with their kids.The CEO's Rule at Home
Christian Sutherland-Wong, at 44 years old, has a simple yet powerful rule at home - he doesn't answer texts or emails in front of his kids. He wants to lead by example and give his children his undivided attention. By staying offline around them, he creates a space where they can feel truly connected.He works remotely from his home office, which allows him to easily pick up on work when the kids are asleep. This way, he can be there for his kids when they come home from school, spend quality time with them, and then get back to work without feeling guilty.Modeling Healthy Habits
Not all work emergencies occur during traditional business hours. Sutherland-Wong creates "space" between his role as a father and a CEO by returning to his home office when an urgent work task arises. This not only helps him maintain a work-life balance but also models healthier habits around technology for his kids.When he privately fires off emails, he is teaching his children that there are boundaries and that it's important to prioritize family time. His kids "pick up on" these behaviors and learn the value of disconnecting from work when it's time to be with family.In conclusion, Christian Sutherland-Wong's approach to parenting shows that it's possible to set boundaries and prioritize family while still being successful in one's career. His example can inspire other parents to find a balance and create meaningful connections with their children.
