You will not believe, but most women still have a positive experience of "returning" to work after maternity leave. They have their own child, their favorite work, and that's fine. But it really needs planning - most problems can be overcome if properly prepared to solve them.
What is the main problem?
Anxiety is the most basic reason preventing a woman from joining the work, using her potential. Women do not know what to expect, especially if it's their first child and, accordingly, the first exit after the decree. The study showed that 1 in 3 women have problems with their boss just after such a "return". But a lot of problems can be avoided by mastering the basic secrets of communication and planning. Have you ever thought that the boss might also be worried? Suddenly he had never previously ruled a pregnant woman or a young mother? Teach him that! But do it gently and unobtrusively, like a woman. Be a good specialist in your field. Plan your every action during the working day - so it will be easier to find the lost organization. The main thing is calmness. And be sure to communicate with colleagues and boss. Just communicate, but do not get smart, get sick, press on pity. Know your rights, but do not enter into an aggressive saying: "I want to respect my rights." Talk to people to make sure you get support when you suddenly need it.
Many women argue as follows: "My company is so big (small) and I worry that I will not receive the necessary support." But believe me, there are advantages to taking maternity leave from both large and small companies. In a small organization, everything is very "personal." You know your boss really well and easily understand the work. It will probably be easy for you to talk about your maternity leave. But a large organization will have a greater "experience" in everything related to maternity leave. All the processes and structures there are clearly established and fairly fast in execution. Contacting the boss with you in such an organization, of course, more remote, but this in some cases you only on hand.
Problems in communicating with colleagues - another "stumbling block" in this sensitive issue. You have to understand: they may just worry that they will significantly increase their work after you leave. And, accordingly, will decrease with your return. Put yourself in their place. Do not judge and do not be offended. Try to make contact with colleagues, whatever it costs. Let them know that you are still the same person, still devoting yourself to your work. Do so that they can rely on you.
Many women think that they are being treated illegally. It is believed that in their case there is discrimination. But this is not always the case. Indeed, both before maternity leave and right after it a woman is extremely vulnerable. And indeed some bosses "use" this to show their power, "to suffer" or simply because of the limitations of their minds and internal culture. Each such case should be treated specifically, if possible, impartially. Remember: the law is on your side, but you do not need to "swing your rights" to the right and left. You still have to work here.
Here are some more tips on what you need to decide before you go on maternity leave:
- Flexible work schedule. Talk about this with your superiors. Perhaps you could fulfill your duties by raising a child. For example, for several hours a day. Or even at home. After all, there are activities that allow. Discuss with your boss. Perhaps you can find an option that suits you both.
- Get the right support. Talk with the boss, and make sure that you are not "overboard". Do not forget about colleagues. Congratulations on your personal holidays, do not leave the band permanently.
- Periodically contact your colleagues and superiors. Even from home. Be interested in the affairs of the firm, do not let "throw yourself aside." Only if you do not worry about work, you will be able to give full attention to your child.
- Arrange a meeting with your boss 2-4 weeks after you returned to check how things are going. Make sure everything is good, that you continue to communicate.