Returning to work after you’ve had a baby, can feel odd, even depressing.
After all, you’ve been at home with your baby.
Now you as you prepare your return you can feel sad that you’ll be away from your child, you can feel like you’re out of the loop at your place of employment, and if you are not returning to a job but rather find yourself looking for new employment it can be nerve wracking.
Some key questions you’d want to have answers:
- How does work and family fit into my life and my career?
- What are your maternity rights?
- How to keep in contact with your workplace prior to returning to work?
- How should you get ready to return to work?
- How to balance the workload at work and at home?
Here are some useful tips to help your reentry into the job market go a little smoother.
Parents Returning To Work: Get the Support You Need
Support for Parents Going Back to Work
There is plenty of support for parents who are returning to work after baby born.
One of the many programs can really benefit you. Some parents look forward to the return, while others may find it harder. Support groups can be extremely helpful to answer the key questions listed above.
The Employer
Many companies have guidelines in place to ease employees on maternity leave back into the work place.
These regulations/guidelines are very beneficial reducing the amount of frustration and keeping employees happier as they reintegrate back into the workforce.
There may even be a set of return to work interview questions prior to day one.
6 Tips for Returning to Work after Maternity Leave
Let’s have a look at 10 tips that will help you return to work smoothly.
1. Settle in Early
If both parents are now back in the work force going back to work after the baby will mean there will be a need for childcare.
It’s best to have your childcare in place well in advance of your return. It’s a good idea to have your child settle in earlier than your first day of work. That way you’ll be a lot more relaxed knowing everything is going to be okay.
2. Have Someone Else Drop Your Child Off
If you find yourself tearing up at the idea of leaving your little one with childcare have someone else drop them off.
This isn’t a cop out. Going back to work is tough enough, watching the face of your little one crying as you walk away can be almost unbearable. Then you can pick the child up and they’ll be so happy to see you.
3. It’s Time for a Makeover
A haircut, a makeover, some new items of clothing, and you’ll feel like a million bucks.
You’ve been out of the workforce for a while and this little pick-me-up can come in real handy.
4. Prepare the Night Before
The first morning back can be hectic and stressful.
To take some of the stress out of the morning prepare before you go to bed. That will make your first day back to work that much easier.
5. It’s Okay to Call and Check
Don’t feel bad if you want to call and check on your little one.
Check as often as you like. If your caregiver doesn’t like the calls you’ve got the wrong caregiver. If your employer doesn’t want you making the calls you probably are working at the wrong place.
6. Carry a Photo
Carrying a photo of your child with you can be very comforting.
Missing your little one a quick glance can be comforting. If you have a desk, you can put the photo right on your desk. If not, you’ve got your breaks when you can take a sneak peak.
Returning to work might be difficult at first but it will get easier! Soon you’ll be in a routine and things will feel right.