Motherhood is an important and wonderful stage in a woman’s life. Addressing the issue in terms of your career however can prove difficult, and often times fraught with confusion on how to raise the topic with your employer.
Australian Businesswomen’s Network Community Director Suzi Dafnis spoke to the Sydney Morning Herald on 12 November, giving tips for women who need to tell their boss they are expecting.
As Suzi explains, it is essential to be upfront with your employer:
“You absolutely need to take care of your family, but you need to be honest about what you plan to do. Your professional reputation is at stake.”
“If you go on maternity leave with no intention of going back you need to ask yourself why you’re working for the organisation if you can’t tell them the truth.”
Rachel Perkins of JustMums Recruitment believes it comes down to the relationship the employee has with the boss, and whether or not the employee feels comfortable discussing their options:
“If there is loyalty established and open lines of communication then it’s better for everyone.”
Suzi provided her top tips on how best to address the topic with the boss, including:
- Be honest – let your employer know if you’re not coming back. If you’re not sure, set an agreement about when you will make a decision.
- Tell your boss in person – arrange a time to go and see your boss. While it may be easier to do it on the phone it shows a respect for the relationship. Never do it by email.
- Keep an open mind – if you’re not sure whether you want to return explore your options with your boss. It could be that there are none, but you won’t know unless you ask.
- Don’t burn your bridges – work together on transition plans and you’ll leave on good terms. You never know when your paths will cross again so keep up the relationship.
- Know your rights and obligations – check your contractual obligations to be sure you don’t have to repay any benefits you’ve been extended.
