You just discovered an amazing job opportunity. Better yet, you’re highly qualified for it. There is just one tiny problem: The timing is not ideal. You are pregnant, and conventional wisdom says switching jobs, whether in the first trimester or third, is not a great idea.
Reality check: If you’re pregnant or plan to be in the near future, it does not mean you should put your dreams of a new job on hold. Many working women face this situation in their lifetimes and with some special considerations, you can navigate the process strategically, honestly, and effectively.
What’s more, most businesses have faced this situation before. While it’s not ideal to hire someone who may need time off shortly after starting the job, it’s the cost of doing business. Moms to be — or those who are thinking of becoming pregnant in the near future — should not feel guilty about job searching now.
The biggest question people in this situation ask is if they should explain their situation during the interview process. While this is entirely your decision, there is no legal reason to do so. The Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1978 provides employees and applicants protection from discrimination based on pregnancy.
This means an employer cannot ask you questions about your family plans either. Asking questions about marriage, wanting children, or having children are all grounds for a discrimination claim. If you’re asked a question specific to your pregnancy or plans to get pregnant, typically you should avoid answering. You can simply state that your plans to have or not have a family will not affect your ability to do the job effectively. Then try to shift the conversation back to the matter at hand: the position.
If you’re still trying or early along in your pregnancy, most experts advise keeping that information to yourself. Just like you should leave out most personal details during an interview and instead focus on your professional skills, you also shouldn’t talk about your desire to have children.
However, if you are far along in your pregnancy, it might be difficult to hide your growing belly. While an employer still cannot ask you about your personal situation, you may feel more obligated to explain yourself. Use the interview as an opportunity to get ahead of any concerns that might be bubbling up in the interviewer’s head. Stress your dedication and discuss your needs for after baby arrives so that everyone is on the same page. By taking a proactive approach, you’ll demonstrate honesty and forward thinking.
Getting a new job opens a wonderful new chapter in life. Having a baby is also an amazing new chapter. There’s no reason that these two chapters can’t happen at the same time.
