Hey Reader, I'm happy to report that we got our 2-year-old to take a nap in his big boy bed this weekend. The first daytime nap at home since before Christmas. Can I get a hallelujah! Today's topic is especially dear to me: announcing your pregnancy at work. This isn't just about crafting the perfect, baby-emoji-laden email. Though that part can be fun, too. Let's dig in. when and how to break the baby news at workThere are so many factors that come into play about the when and how we choose to share the baby news at work. Having been there three times, I know the value of confiding in a boss for support amidst the whirlwind of pregnancy fatigue, emotions, sickness, and other challenges. Ultimately, it's a balance between empathy and reality, between your personal and professional worlds. Especially if your path has been marked by fertility challenges or loss. Today, we're talking about when and how to navigate the share with care, honesty, and a bit of courage. benefits of an early shareOk, so real talk my manager was the first person I told (after my partner) with each of my three pregnancies. Every time it was a weekend-morning FaceTime call around the five-week mark. I knew I needed her help in balancing all the joy and ick that comes with pregnancy, with getting my job done. Two things made this approach the best one for me:
While this may not work for everyone, here are the biggest benefits I see of sharing early on:
added complexities of loss and fertility challengesBut what if your journey here has been a rollercoaster of fertility treatments or heartbreaking pregnancy loss? I'm so sorry... I've been there too. I'm so thankful that when we did experience a 22-week loss, I had an incredible extended support system through my manager who gave me the space I needed to recover, grieve, and come back to work in my own time. Fertility challenges and loss add some complexities to the equation about when and how we share the news with the office.
potential pitfalls and realitiesUltimately, the timing of your announcement is deeply personal and is entirely up to you. Do what brings you peace of mind and confidence. Some of the pitfalls and realities you may be considering are:
how to say "I'm pregnant"Starting this conversation can feel daunting, like jumping into a frigid pool too early in the summer. Ease into it with preparation.
conversation startersNot sure how to start the conversation? Here are a few starters to try out and see what fits for you:
Navigating the 'I'm Pregnant' conversation at work, especially amid fertility challenges or loss, requires courage. Choose the right setting, timing, and words, and you can set a positive tone for the months ahead. Remember, your journey is unique, and handling this conversation is part of your incredible story. jump in and share!Have you had the 'I'm Pregnant' talk at work? What worked for you? Hit reply and share your experiences (and let me know if it's ok to share with others). Let’s continue this conversation and support each other through life’s big moments. ICYMI Coming up next week, we're talking about how parental leave can be a strategic opportunity for career advancement. Stay tuned! You got this. Cassandra 113 Cherry St #92768, Seattle, WA 98104-2205 |
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I’m a mom, certified career coach, ex-spy, and corporate culture leader. I'm driven to make work suck less by helping women break the burnout cycle, pivot with purpose, and thrive in their careers. I believe everyone deserves to wake up excited and energized for the day. Together, let's find the perspective you need to work, create, and build from a place of joy, not dread. #makeworksuckless
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