Maternity/ Paternity Leave - Tips for a smooth transition back to work

Going back to work after becoming a mother or father (particularly for the first time) can be a daunting task. Here are our tips for a smooth transition:

1. Understand your rights as a working parent

Despite being absent from your work for an extended period of time you are still entitled to the same job and contract that you had previous to leaving. The date of your return can be adjusted (earlier or later) but you must provide advance warning of this to your employer. If you feel you are receiving unfair treatment related to your leave make sure to contact your HR department.

2. Consider flexible working arrangements

It's a good idea to seek out alternative working times for at least the first few weeks back to work. The options range from working part time to job share and working from home. Staggered hours can also help at first to get you used to professional life again (alongside spending valuable time at home with your child.)  

3. Keep in contact but enjoy this time

It is important to really enjoy your maternity/ paternity leave, it is such a special time and one you can’t get back. An easy way to keep in the loop is to keep in touch with your employer and work colleagues to ensure you are aware of any challenges and changes in the business, especially those which relate to your specific area of work and role. Keeping up with industry news can help too, but anything else can wait. Time with your newborn is more important.

4. Appreciate and prepare for the logistics of a new routine

Make a plan for going back to work, including child care, transport and pick up. You are guaranteed to miss not being with your baby when you return, so it’s important to ensure steps are taken to make sure your mind is at rest during the day, and all the baby’s needs are met.

5. Update your CV

Parenthood brings with it numerous transferable skills which are invaluable in the workplace. These include multi-tasking, organisation, patience and persistence… skills and qualities which are viewed as beneficial and practical to many businesses and individuals.

Above all don’t overthink it, you were great at your job when you left and you will pick up right where you left off. Make the most of that special time with your child and going back will inevitably be easier.

For expert advice from the recruitment specialists on any aspect of your career, email consultants@1strecruit.co.uk or call 01534 875444.