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How to Tell Your Boss You’re Pregnant

Member
By Aricka Flowers
User-Submitted Article
(3 Ratings)

Surprise, you’re pregnant! Whether it’s planned or not, pregnancies are bound to come as a shock to at least one person in your life. And oftentimes, that someone is your boss. Here’s how to break your baby news to your boss

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Time
  1. Step 1

    Determine when it would be best to tell your boss about your pregnancy. This will depend on your job type. Most physicians suggest that pregnancy announcements be made after the first trimester. But if your job is highly stressful, strenuous or exposes you to harsh chemicals, it may be necessary that you inform your boss as soon as possible in order to keep your baby safe and healthy. Other incentives that may lead one to tell their boss before the first trimester is complete include additional health services provided by the employer and understanding when you’re late due to a bout of morning sickness.

  2. Step 2

    Do research. Check out your contract or visit your human resources department to find out about all the options available to you concerning maternity leave. You should be armed with this knowledge when you tell your boss the news. This way, you can be clear about the time you want off and have the knowledge of your company’s policies to back it up.

  3. Step 3

    Take a close look at your family’s finances. When determining how much time to ask for when you announce your pregnancy, be realistic about how long the family can go without your paycheck. Chances are, you will be able to take time off without pay but and still be able to get company benefits. Decide if it’s feasible for your family to take that route, and for how long.

  4. Step 4

    Set up a time to meet with your supervisor. When you head into your meeting, bring a letter stating your pregnancy announcement and also tell your boss that you are pregnant in person. With the letter, at least you have a paper trail of when and how you alerted your boss of your pregnancy. Make sure you allocate enough time to discuss your workload, conditions, maternity leave and any other topics that you feel are important at this time.

Tips & Warnings
  • If you are demoted, fired or laid off after announcing your pregnancy, check out your rights under the Pregnancy Discrimination Act.
  • Avoid telling your boss about your pregnancy before an expected raise or performance review, as they could be adversely affected by the news if you spill the beans too soon.

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