By Sonja
Forward email to Sonja here

"Nothing worth having comes cheap, its just easier for men to pay the price"

I am a General Manager with a leading Rent to Own company. I read the article by Samantha Whitten and I applaud her for her words. However, I do not agree with them. 

Being a women manager in Rent to Own is much harder than people think. Women in Rent to Own sacrifice their families. I am a single mother of 4 and because of my position I do not see my children as much as if I worked at a regular 9 to 5. Men don't concern themselves because, well lets fact it, they have their wives taking care of the little ones. Women are by nature the nurturers of the family. We are the glue that bonds us together. We are the boo boo kissers and the homework checkers. Women don't seem to last long in this industry because, although the money is fabulous, the wear and tear on the family is almost unbearable.

Most companies seem to hire women for the appearance of a balanced workforce, only to push them beyond their limits until they break. I don't see my male counter parts being pushed and ridiculed in the same way. I see them going to Hooters with the district managers and all buddy'd up at meetings. There is obviously a discrimination factor that will be hard to overcome. 

Trust me, it is different. However, they wont break this one. I like the money too much to be pushed out. My numbers are comparable to other stores and I'm doing my job. However the real issue of discrimination still exists, and its time it was addressed.

I love the company that I work for. I love my job.  I love my store. It's just been male dominant for so long. It's time for more women to stop being afraid and go where the money is. Rent to Own! If enough women joined the force, changes could take place and those of us that sacrificed can watch the next generation benefit from our pains.

The Rent to Own industry is not for every woman, or every man for that matter. It takes a strong mind, passion, loyalty and drive. It takes a person that doesn't need a pat on the shoulder every time it gets hard. It takes a person that desires to be the best and do their best. Its not about gender. Its about ability.

However, the truth is Rent to Own is not women oriented. Rent to Own mothers end up neglecting the very thing we are providing for; Our family. Its the way of the world, nothing worth having comes cheap, its just easier for men to pay the price.

So to all my lady managers, hang in there, don't give up, and never ever cry. Only let them see your strengths. You are making an impact. Things are hard now, but tomorrow, tomorrow will be a better day.

Sincerely
A Rent to Own General Manager

Sonja is a General Manager for a leading Rental Purchase Chain in the US. Forward email to Sonja here

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