Job Searching When Pregnant

Expecting a baby while on the job search can be quite the challenge. On top of competing for a few number of positions, you may experience a mixture of emotions — excitement, stress, worry and concern for the future. So how do you tell prospective employers that you're expecting?

Research, Research, Research

If this is your first pregnancy, understand that once you give birth, your entire life will change—including your values and priorities. Benefits that didn't mean much before are now at the top of the list. You need to conduct thorough research of every company in your job search, and compare the benefits and perks each job has to offer. Besides compensation, consider other benefits such as paid time off, telecommuting options, quality of health insurance coverage and flexibility of work hours. Check out Working Mother's 100 Best Companies list for help compiling a list of companies to target, recommends Amanda Augustine, career advice expert for TopResume.

Disclosing Your Status

You are under no legal obligation to disclose your pregnancy to potential employers. The decision is more of a moral dilemma than anything. You don't want your employer to feel misled when your pregnancy becomes obvious down the line, but you also don't want to ruin your chances of getting the job in the first place. Remember that employers are looking for great workers, and being pregnant doesn't exclude you from being a worthy candidate. The decision to disclose your situation is at your own discretion. If it is not visibly obvious yet, Augustine recommends not mentioning the pregnancy at all until you've received a job offer. "The focus should be placed on learning more about the position and communicating your interest in the role and your qualifications, not your family plans," she says.

Legalities

It is illegal for any potential employer to ask you about pregnancy, marital status or future plans for a family. Questions like these can seem friendly and casual, so be on the lookout and understand that you do not have to answer them. Tactfully move to the next subject if you can. Moreover, the Pregnancy Discrimination Act makes it illegal for an employer to refuse to interview or hire you just because you are pregnant. If at any point in the job search you suspect that you are being discriminated against because of pregnancy, contact the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission for assistance.

Planning the Future

Try to save all discussions about maternity leave and time off until you've been offered the job in writing. Maternity leave is just a temporary absence and should have no major effect on your performance. Be prepared to do some thorough planning well in advance. Give the employer as many details as possible: your due date, when you plan to leave and return, and how you plan to cover your work responsibilities. Providing these answers shows your new employer that you are committed to your job.

The job search is challenging, especially while pregnant. Research each company thoroughly, and educate yourself on the employment laws in your state. The more informed you are during your job search, the better you'll be able to handle the tricky questions and tough decisions you face.

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