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Interviewing while pregnant
I'm currently 8 months pregnant and interviewing for a new job in a different state. My family and I plan to move back home once I deliver (my 3rd baby), so I am applying now for jobs since I know it could take 3-10 months to find a new (non-entry level) position. I am in a tough spot, because I want to be forthcoming with my interviewer and tell them that I am pregnant, which I have. However, I also have to tell them that I can't start until the end of summer or else I would lose my leave with my current employer and be in a position (if I am even eligible) to take unpaid leave. How do you approach this subject? What is the best strategy? Do I wait and tell them I am pregnant and my potential start date until after I am offered the position? Do I "rip the band-aid off" in the 1st interview?" I believe that if I am the right candidate, waiting an extra 3 months should not be a factor, as if you hire the wrong candidate, it could cost a company years in loss productivity. I'm looking for advice from supervisors, HR experts, and fellow moms who have dealt with this.
MomLifeCareer mom
693
03/21/19 at 1:54PM UTC
I think it's really smart to start networking now. I'd also try to network with people in companies you want to work for even if they aren't necessarily hiring for a position available at the moment.
Ceci
1.91k
03/21/19 at 1:55PM UTC
Agreed. I'm speaking to someone tomorrow about a role that doesn't exist yet but I foresee it existing in 3-4 months from now. Having that kind of conversation will make you more memorable if/when the opportunity arises. Good luck, congrats and hope the move goes well!
Goalsetter867488
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03/21/19 at 12:38PM UTC
Thanks for both of your input. A couple points to note, I am 8 months pregnant, so there is no hiding the fact that I am pregnant during an interview. Second, I am a lawyer, so veracity is very important in my field and one of the main pillars an employer would look for prior to hiring an attorney. It is difficult for me not to be forthcoming about my pregnancy, when my profession holds me to a high ethical standard.
EmpoweredGirl - Gina MartinI love what I do , purpose and passion!
109
03/20/19 at 6:52PM UTC
From a recruiting aspect - when we are interviewing for our company it is usually because we have an immediate need. I have found that it really depends on the company - some will wait some will not. I do recommend that the company be informed in the interview process of the expect earliest date you would be able to start. That will set the precedent if you are a good fit for the company. even though I am a Recruitment Consultant for companies, I am also a Candidate Advocate. It must be a good fit for both sides. Personal details do not need to be included just the date of when you would be available. I hope this helps...
Anonymous
03/20/19 at 8:28PM UTC
I totally agree that it depends on the company in terms of whether they will wait. Every time my department has posted a job it is because there is an immediate need. If someone great comes along that can start right away, I will hire them over an equally qualified candidate who cannot start right away. I also don't think you need to tell them right away that you are pregnant; there are a lot of reasons someone might not be able to start right away (e.g. move timing is often very tricky because it involves relocating a whole family, selling/renting out a home, etc)
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