Preparing well for your maternity leave

Having a baby is a wonderful thing but if you are a working woman, you have to plan well in advance for a smooth return to work. What are the tips to aid you in this difficult phase of life? Have a look at these.

Confirmation of pregnancy is great news and as you start making plans for the new baby, make sure you have a plan ready for your office too.You will definitely have a lot of things to manage before you go on leave. Right from breaking the news to your boss to managing complete detachment from office, to informing the return date – there are many things that need to be tackled smartly and hence, the preparations should begin early. How does one handle this situation?

A mom-to-be: Obviously, you’ll be skeptical, it’s likely to ring in more worry than happiness at work. Here are some things that you need to manage, soon after you spell the news.

Decide on a time-line: Let the concerned people know the date till which you would like to continue working. Some women work right up to their delivery but some like to begin the leave a little early to prepare for the road ahead. Hence, spelling out the exact date is important unless some unforeseen event happens. Never be vague about the return date even if you aren’t sure about returning to work. Make that clear from the beginning, so that your employer is not left in the lurch.
Sort it all for colleagues: Your leave will certainly impact work and therefore also impact your colleagues who might need to handle it in your absence. So, figure out who will handle your work in your absence and sit with him/her for a thorough knowledge transfer. Share all the relevant details so that nothing obstructs the workflow in your absence. Always keep your boss in the loop.
Know your rights: Know your company policies and how you’ll be paid during the leave. Manage your leaves and finances accordingly. Also, have the information regarding emergency handling and medical insurance on your finger tips and do inform your spouse of the same.

A new mom: Setting aside the initial euphoria of holding the baby for the first time, it's time to take hard professional decisions.

Set limits of contact while on leave: By all means, keep in touch, but set limits to restore sanity with the tribulations of new motherhood. Make sure you attend to the queries of your colleagues either through e-mail or phone but only at a particular time of the day/week, as per your convenience.
Know the point of contact: If you have any problem, make sure you have a point of contact in office, who can give you clarity on all fronts.

Getting back to work: With too much to do, this is undoubtedly a difficult phase.

Coming back: During this transition period, decide how you'll like to get back to work. If the company permits, you may want to take a half day or avail of work from home option for some time. Though these days flexible work arrangements are encouraged, you should be ready to negotiate well in advance.

Getting back to work: It’s undoubtedly the most turbulent phase, adjusting to work, new colleagues, new clients and new activities. Expect the unexpected and be thankful to the co-workers who stepped in your absence and did your work.

By planning better, you’ll be able to manage your priorities on the personal as well as professional life. Though a tough balancing act, learn to enjoy your new motherhood despite the work pressure. You shall soon be surprised at the new energy and enthusiasm in you.
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