In order to benefit from the legal protection
afforded to working pregnant women, it is advisable
to inform your boss of your condition. While many
women prefer to keep their pregnancy a secret
until they begin to 'show' (around the second
trimester), this may not be feasible and favorable.
What if pregnancy discomforts surface and affect
your job performance, such as morning sickness,
fatigue, nausea or even temporary memory loss?
Your boss and coworkers may misconceive your behavior
and assume the worst. More importantly you may
bring potential harm to your pregnancy if you
continue working in conditions not suitable for
a pregnant woman. All things considered, inform
your boss or immediate supervisor before any of
your colleagues. Don't let the word' slip out';
instead inform your boss over a formal meeting.
Be prepared to answer a host of questions your
boss may have for you. Use this meeting as a platform
to show your boss your capabilities and willingness
to handle job pressures. The questions may include:
- How long you intend to continue working
during your pregnancy
- How much time off you will need after giving
birth
- Your plan to return to your job will be
on a full time or part time basis
- Suggestions on how your work load can be
handled in your absence ' who might take over
while you are away, is hiring a temp necessary
Be prepared to answer a host of questions your
boss may have for you. Use this meeting as a platform
to show your boss your capabilities and willingness
to handle job pressures. The questions may include:
Let your boss know if you can be reached at home
once you stop working and how much the company
can depend on your input when you take leave of
absence. On your part, familiarize yourself with
the maternity benefits or policies of the company
before the meeting. Follow up your meeting with
a written memo stating when you expect to stop
work, the length of your leave, handling your
workload and your plans for resuming work. Keep
one copy for your records. It is up to you if
want to share the news with your coworkers or
keep mum for a while longer.
Be prepared for a variety of reactions from your
colleagues' some positive and some the opposite.
The important thing is don't allow yourself to
be professionally intimidated by anyone's reactions,
whether it is your boss or your colleagues.
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