When asked what businesses were appropriate for baby
programs, Wendy Zanotelli replied,
It's funny--if I had had an interview prior to
implementing [the program at UNCLE Credit
Union], I would have said not in a bank or credit
union. But I now think every bank and credit union
should have this program. I think it would work in
any business aside from where it may pose a safety
issue or if the parent is in a very active job. Even in
a retail environment, it could probably work.
At least nine retail stores have current babies-at-work
programs. Having a baby in a retail environment requires more
attention to issues related to babies in a public environment and
rules related to customer interaction, but if a retailer sets up a
clear policy (and ensures that safety is taken into consideration in
planning), baby programs can work very well in these
organizations (and have strong benefits in terms of attracting and
retaining customers, as described earlier).
Detailed Procedures and Expectations
Although an informal arrangement has worked for some small
companies, there are a number of benefits to having a clearly
written policy detailing the parameters of a baby program. Angel
Rimbault, a mother from Schools Financial, thought it was very
important to have a "very specific, black and white agreement
saying what could and could not be done." She said that, for
example, Schools' policy makes it clear that credit union
members are not allowed to hold the babies. She said that, as a
parent, she didn't want to walk into this kind of program not
knowing the rules. Having a written policy helps make parents
more comfortable bringing in their babies.
Brent Roper said that, when they planned to implement a baby
program at the National Association of Insurance Commissioners,
"three of my top managers--all women--came into my office and
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