Seeking Advice: Job Hunting While Pregnant
My wife is expecting our second child (due late October to early November), and I’m currently on the job market following layoffs. My official end date at my current position is in May, and I’m hopeful to secure a new job by then.
While I’m confident in my ability to find a new position, I’m less certain about taking adequate paternity leave. Many companies have policies limiting leave for new fathers until they’ve been with the organization for at least a year. My last employer provided 16 weeks of leave, and I’m hoping to have something similar for our new arrival.
I have a couple of questions:
1. Is it possible to negotiate paternity leave during the hiring process (both in terms of duration and timing)? I’m reluctant to bring it up so early in the pregnancy, as I wouldn’t want it to negatively impact my job prospects.
- Would it be wise to consider a 4-5 month contract position leading up to the baby’s due date, take the necessary time off, and then resume my job search? I have a solid severance package, and I believe the contract role could offer a higher base salary compared to a full-time position.
For context, I’m targeting senior staff or manager-level roles in internal Audit and finance at larger banks and industry firms.
One response
First of all, congratulations on the upcoming addition to your family! Navigating job searches during this exciting time can be challenging, but here are some insights to consider regarding your questions:
Negotiating Paternity Leave: While it’s understandable to want to ensure you can take time off for your new baby, discussing paternity leave during the hiring process can be tricky. Generally, companies have established policies regarding parental leave, and expected timing can vary significantly between organizations. If the conversation comes up naturally during discussions about benefits, you can certainly ask about parental leave policies. However, it might be more prudent to delay this discussion until after you’ve received an offer. By then, you’ll have a better sense of the company’s culture and flexibility. It is essential to approach this conversation with the mindset that it’s about seeking clarity on benefits rather than making demands.
Considering a Contract Role: Taking a contract role could be a viable option, especially if it offers a higher base pay while allowing you some flexibility before the baby arrives. Just ensure that the role aligns with your career goals and does not hinder your long-term job search after the baby arrives. It’s also worth considering whether the contract position includes benefits or has the potential to convert to a full-time role, which may also provide you with more favorable paternity leave options down the line.
Ultimately, weighing the benefits of a contract role against the potential challenges of job searching later is key. Make sure to plan for a smooth transition when you’re ready to resume your job hunt after the baby arrives.
Best of luck with the job search and the upcoming arrival of your little one!