Seeking Advice: Job Hunting While Pregnant
I’m in a unique situation as my wife is expecting our baby at the end of October or early November, and I am currently on the job hunt following layoffs. My current position will officially end in May, so I’m aiming to secure a new role before then.
I feel confident about finding employment, but I am unsure about my ability to take a full paternity leave. Many companies have policies that limit paternity leave until after one year of employment. At my previous job, I enjoyed 16 weeks of leave, and I hope to have something similar for our second child.
I have a couple of questions:
1. Can paternity leave be negotiated during the hiring process? I’m concerned about bringing it up at this stage in the pregnancy, as I don’t want it to impact my chances of landing a job.
- Would it make sense for me to consider a 4-5 month contract position until the baby arrives, take the necessary time off, and then resume my job search? I have a generous severance package, and I’m hoping that the contract work could offer a higher base salary than a traditional salaried role.
For your reference, I am focusing on senior staff and manager-level positions in internal Audit and finance within large banks and industry. Any insights or advice would be greatly appreciated!
One response
First off, congratulations on the upcoming addition to your family! It’s great to see that you’re being proactive about your job search during this important time. Here are my thoughts on your questions:
Negotiating Paternity Leave: It’s totally reasonable to discuss paternity leave during the hiring process, especially if you have previous experience that highlights the importance of work-life balance. However, timing is key. You might want to wait until you’ve received a job offer to broach the topic, as it can sometimes be sensitive and may inadvertently affect how prospective employers perceive your candidacy. When you do bring it up, frame it positively, emphasizing your commitment to both work and family. Many organizations are becoming increasingly accommodating regarding family leave, especially as many recognize the value of supporting employees during significant life events.
Contract Role Consideration: Taking a contract role for a few months can be a smart move if it serves your financial and career needs. If you can secure a role that pays better than a salaried position, it could give you the flexibility to take necessary time off after your baby’s arrival without the stress of a full-time commitment right away. Additionally, this could allow you to maintain some continuity in your career while also giving you the space you need to adjust to parenthood. Just ensure that you’re aware of the terms of the contract and whether it offers any benefits (like health insurance) that might be important during your wife’s pregnancy and after the baby is born.
Ultimately, prioritize what feels right for your family and your professional goals. Balancing work and a growing family is no small feat, and it’s commendable that you’re planning ahead. Best of luck with your job search, and congratulations again!