Returning to work after maternity leave can be an intimidating experience. Maternity leave is hard, but it’s also one of the most important things you can do for your career.
One of the best ways to make sure you’re ready to return to work after maternity leave is by taking advantage of all the tips available.
In this article, we’ve provided tips for getting back on track after maternity leave.
Tips to Help You Return to Work After Maternity Leave
When you’re pregnant, you may find yourself feeling like you have to give up many of your responsibilities and priorities. But this isn’t the case—you are still an important member of your organization and your paid maternity leave can be used in a way that benefits everyone else. Here are some tips for returning to work after maternity leave:
Make a plan
We know it’s hard to return to work after maternity leave, but it’s still important too. You’ll have to organize a plan that supports making out time for yourself and your baby, and also for your job. If you’re returning to work before your due date, try to find ways to get back into the swing of things while respecting your baby’s need for sleep and attention. Once you give birth, it will be harder to focus if you haven’t been able to adjust your schedule. That’s why preparing ahead is advisable. Think of good childcare services so when you are at work you can rest in assurance knowing that your baby is in safe hands. You can call to check in from time to time as well.
Know what you want
It’s important not only that you know what you want from your job, but also that you know what you don’t want. You’ll want to remain focused on getting back into the habit of working after childbirth—and that takes practice. So don’t feel like a failure if the first week or two aren’t perfect; just work harder at figuring out how you can get back on track. When going back to work after maternity leave, you can speak to your employer about how you’ll prefer to adjust. This can be asking for a hybrid work (working remotely some days and other days at the office) or a fully remote position until you are fully ready.
Be honest
The unexpected can happen at any time when you need to be there for your baby. In these times, you’ll have to tell your boss about it. Feel free to explain why you need to be absent from work on a particular day or why you need to leave early. Good bosses won’t scold you for that. You can also talk with your coworkers about how they will cover for you while you’re away.
Employ Mentor Services
When moms are returning to work, it’s important to have someone who will guide them through the process. This is necessary if you battle with postpartum emotions—yes, they do happen. Find a mentor or coach who will provide you with valuable feedback about how you can improve in your field and how that improvement will benefit the company.
Regular Check-Ins
Schedule regular check-ins with HR so they know where you are and what progress has been made in your career development goals during this time off from work and what still needs to be done.
Join a Support Group
Consider joining an organization that supports new moms and their families where many women participate. These organizations may have resources that can help you become reacquainted with the workplace after having children. And don’t forget, you’re not alone. There are plenty of people who have experienced maternity leave and returned to work with their heads held high and just as much energy as always — and they’re ready to help navigate any problems that may arise when you get back to work.
For most moms returning to work after maternity leave is a lot to take in. And trust us, we get it. However, with the right tips, it’s not impossible. Using the tips above will help you get back on your feet in no time.