Here's how to make it work!
A maternity leave is a common transition experienced by many women. This transition is often regarded as a critical turning point for the family, the individual, and one’s career. However, less common is the focus on how this transition specifically impacts a woman’s career development. If you are anticipating a maternity leave career transition or are in the midst of one, you will find some tips and strategies below to help you cope with the change process before, during, and after your maternity leave.
Establish a communication plan: In collaboration with your employer, determine how much communication you feel would be appropriate while you are on maternity leave. Have a conversation about how often updates will be given, and how communication will be maintained (e.g., telephone, e-mail, text, mail, or in person).
Engage in professional and/or personal development: Although your maternity leave may be a time when your job is put on pause, you may still want to engage in professional and/or personal development. Whether it is taking part in a training seminar, pursuing career counselling, attending a workshop or event, or simply meeting with friends or colleagues, connecting with other like-minded individuals during your leave can help you to maintain and increase your competence and confidence.
Have a return to work interview with your employer: When you choose to return to work, there may be a number of changes to your role as well as other aspects of the workplace. Having an open dialogue about any changes in roles and responsibilities with your employer will allow both of you to clearly communicate and negotiate expectations.
Discuss flexible work arrangements: Whether you gradually return to work or implement other flexible work arrangements, the opportunity to have flexibility creates room for integration between your work and family lives. As a mother returning to work, better work-life integration allows you to be more effective in both your role as a parent and as an employee. Consider what flexible arrangements may suit you and have a conversation with your employer about what options are available in your workplace.
Remember, just like your behaviours and interactions change to correspond to the age and stage of your child, your career also requires similar adaptation. Career is developmental in nature; it is not a “once and done” style of decision making. The importance of your career relative to other aspects of your life may change over time. It is important to reflect on, and identify how your maternity leave career transition impacts your priorities. Adapt your goals and objectives accordingly and take actions that support what makes sense for you.
For more tips and strategies on how to navigate your maternity leave, download the free pdf Making It Work! How to Effectively Navigate Maternity Leave Career Transitions: An Employee’s Guide or purchase the book from Amazon or Chapters and Indigo.