After the birth of a baby, going back to work can seem surreal. For some women, it’s welcome; for others, it’s a must. Wherever you fall in the spectrum, here are a few tips to help make the transition as smooth as possible:
Tip #1: Take it Slow
If possible, schedule a shorter work week for your first week back. Go into the office for two or three days, rather than five full days to get re-acclimated, connect with your boss and co-workers, answer emails and phone calls, and start putting together a list of priorities for your first full week back. Being able to leave after a few hours, or only going in for a couple days will help ease your mind – and the transition.
Tip #2: Don’t Be Too Hard on Yourself
As one of the leading employment firms in Miami Lakes, Future Force knows going back to work after an extended leave can feel like starting a brand new job. Give yourself some time to adjust to the situation. After all, your days over the past few weeks or months have been completely focused on your baby; not on work. You’re going to need a while to find the right balance between your personal life and your career.
Tip #3: Explore Company Flex Perks
If your company offers flex schedules or the ability to telecommute – and you haven’t taken advantage of these options before – then consider them now. In today’s workplace, even people who don’t have children want a more flexible lifestyle. So don’t feel guilty for arranging a less rigorous schedule.
Tip #4: Communicate With Your Boss
Make a point to communicate with your boss more often, especially in those first few weeks and months back. If you want to continue working the same hours and stay on track for that big promotion, make your ambitions clear. Your boss may assume you want to slow your career down for a while, while you’re still focused on getting ahead.
Tip #5: Keep It Professional
People will undoubtedly ask about your baby and offer advice at first. Having those kinds of conversations is a great way to connect with and strengthen your relationships with co-workers. But try not to focus on all baby, all the time. Your back at work, after all, and have a job to do.
Tip #6: Do a Dry Run
Before your first day back, do a dry run of how long it will take you to get ready and get to work in the mornings. Pack all the gear, get the baby ready, drive to whatever childcare arrangements you’ve made (if they’re not in your home), and then go to your office. It may take longer than you think; when you know, you can plan ahead and not have to worry about rushing around in the morning.
Looking to re-enter the workforce after an extended time away? Call Future Force. As one of the leading employment firms in Miami Lakes, we’ve helped thousands of job seekers find rewarding career opportunities with great companies throughout South Florida. And we can help you too! Contact Future Force today to learn more or search our Miami jobs now.