Has anyone had a baby less than a year after starting a new job? How did it go for you? (USA)

Considering searching for a new job but I also want to have my second child next year. I’m afraid if I wait until after that I’ll be outside the window for my experience level. But I don’t want to screw myself over by not being eligible for FMLA. Do I need to jump ship now so I’ll be somewhere for a full year?

like
Posting as :
works at
You are currently posting as works at

I did - I was pregnant immediately after joining my firm - not planned. I was not eligible for FMLA but able to take advantage of the firm's attorney maternity leave (16 weeks). There is no good timing to have a baby.

likehelpful

I started my current in-house job when I was 4.5 months pregnant. I took an abbreviated leave, and wish I had had more time, but trading off the maternity leave for a better lifestyle overall — which has meant much more time with my child — was well worth it.

like

I don't think it hurts to start looking since you can't control the timeline for either the job search or pregnancy. A friend of mine started at a new firm 6 months pregnant and her firm still gave her paid leave.

Some employers require a new hire to be working for a certain time period before they are eligible for paid maternity leave under the policy. I’ve seen/heard 1-2 years at some firms, and sometimes 3 years at companies (if you were thinking in house). Nothing wrong with looking, and I’ve seen associates lateral to firms and go out on maternity leave within that first year (or shortly after they 1 year mark), just keep that in mind when considering any offers if you absolutely have to have a paid maternity leave. Ultimately, plan your family how you want to/can - you really can’t predict with great certainty how anything (job search or pregnancy) will ultimately pan out.

I know a woman who started the IVF process within 3 months of starting at our firm. We are eligible for parental benefits on day one. She was also eligible for reimbursement for IVF.

I did and negotiated for full leave. Find a mentor or sponsor to support you. If they don’t want you to leave they’ll give you what you want.

I was three months when I started. Told them when I was five months (2 months after starting). It has worked out well. Didn’t qualify for FMLA, and they had no maternity policy aside from ADA/FMLA, but they either forgot or just let me take 12 weeks anyway.

I just found out I'm pregnant and just started my job. I'll have full coverage even though I'll be going on leave before my first year. It was important to me and something I researched before accepting my role.

I switched firms when I was six months pregnant and negotiated full leave. My understanding for most big firms is that it’s fine to be there less than a year and take leave anyway.

Related Posts

I have been looking at the curriculums for Harvard Business School's Master of Business Administration and Harvard Extension School's ALM in Management. They both have the same requirements (generally speaking) including a capstone course that serves as a field immersion course with the Master's in Management, which is fairly new. If I am not able to gain admission to Harvard Business School, but wanted a similar educational experience to become a consultant, should I attend Harvard Extension?

Working as a Senior Accountant at Vanguard with my CPA; 3 YOE, Greater Philadelphia area. Took this job to give accounting one more try and while I don’t regret it I’m bored. Anything in finance more challenging/less box-checking? People have recommended public but I’m not interested in audit/tax or travel.

Best books about product management for a good exit to industry? I already have an MBA and PMP but looking for a refreshed perspective since it’s been years since my formal education.

Currently reading “Product Managements Sacred Seven” but it’s geared toward the startup world. I am in healthcare and not looking for a startup role. TIA!!!

like

I'm being asked to be involved in product pricing for the first time, and lack any knowledge or experience in that area. Any suggestions on courses or books or websites? I'm considering the Pragmatic Marketing pricing course, so would be interested to hear from anyone who has taken it.

like

Has anyone moved back from US to India recently ? Can you please share your experience.

I have 1 year left on H1B and not super sure if I want to continue here.

Will fall in EB2 even if I paln anything and do not see 20/30 may be more years worth waiting.

like

Is 7 hours of sleep everyday enough to rejuvenate and get all the benefits of a “good night’s sleep”?

like

I've been in PeopleOps (mostly focused on TA Ops) for over 9 years now. I've somehow gotten by without a degree in HR or a certification, but would like to get some more education to continue to advance my career. What are your thoughts on PHR vs SPHR vs SHRM for someone with my years of experience and current role as a manager?

Are there non-FAANG companies with comparable compensation & WLB? It seems impossible to break into FAANG.

likefunny

Does anyone know what the fertility benefits and maternity leave are at IPG companies? I'm considering an opportunity at an IPG-backed small agency and trying to figure out what the IVF coverage looks like. When is the right time to ask for their benefits package? TIA!

likehelpful

Brought in hydrangeas from my backyard. My poor baby :( I didn’t know. He’s ok! Just puked two times before I could make the connection. Send prayers 💔

likehelpful

Hi Moms. I’m 4.5mo postpartum with my first, and I’m having incredible feelings of resentment toward my husband, who I love dearly and with whom I’ve always had a great relationship. It feels like he’s not factoring me or the baby into his decisions (e.g. going on a 4d boys trip, attending big events), while I’m left with the consequences. My mat leave is ending, and he’s now sick with COVID. He’s quarantining at my in-laws while I return to work and take care of baby. I’m so frustrated… (cont.)

likehelpful

Knowing how the tech market is today, if you were graduating from your MBA now, would you go into MBB or try for roles in tech?

like

Does anyone have the solutions of the power platform certification? :D

like

What’s your top 3 change management books from the last 5 years? (Trying to refresh and read up again!)

like

Best tea to drink when you have COVID?? Throat is killing me :(

Kamusta? I'm new here.
I'm a CPA in the Philippines. I'm thinking if I can continue my profession and progress my career in other country and also to seek higher salary with great benefits but less cost of living. Where do you think should I start checking on? 😁
I'm thinking if I should go back as External Assurance Auditor to where I am 2.5 yrs ago in a one of the Big 4 before I became a Consultant on a project-based as, so far, as Tax Specialist. Any advise to my baby mind? Thank you! 😊

like

What recruiting exit opportunities have people seen / achieved? I managed to pívot out of agency into a early careers campaign manager, then to HR project management, but lo and behold I’m back in corporate full cycle recruiting again 😛

Post Photo
funnylike

Hi all, I’m planning to take my first exam in NY. I’m hesitating to take it 1-2 days right before the day of my flight (going on PTO) is it risky ? I know some people got their seat cancelled by Prometric. What are your thoughts ? Thanks

like

I have joining in Tiger as Data Engineer next month in AwS, I have heard that they put in training for two months and ask to take some certification, can someone please provide info what kind of test or certification is expected....?? Has anyone given such test??

YoEx - 6
Tech - Bigdata

More Posts

Looking for some summer/spring wedge sandals. I prefer the heel to be on the higher side (4-5 inches). Any recommendations?

like

What are different ways to get into an entry level/junior level strategy position?

like

Hey guys one of my friend having 4 years of experience at Accenture needs a referral for Salesforce manual tester position, please let me know if you guys come accross any openings.

like

Would you take a step back in title to be an analyst at a PE firm (analyst to them is minimum 3 years experience) and a short term pay cut (probably for just a year) if you were in a middle office type role at an asset management firm with ~ 6 years of experience

like

Hi! Wanted to get thoughts from those who have exited to a startup from MBB/T2. Have an offer from a series C start up — would take ~$20k base cut but with bonus (annually) would make about 25k more TC plus RSUs. Much better WLB and great people. Is the base cut normal? Thoughts?

like

How do you know if you're being passed over because you're "overqualified"? I'm not taking about people who apply to jobs that they're clearly not qualified for

like

What is average AVP salary (Band H5) at BOFA BA Continuum ?

like

Rainbow Radish, Cara Cara Orange, Goat Cheese, and Chive Salad with Honey Orange Vinaigrette

I just made this salad. It’s pretty, tastes good, and is effortless. I haven’t written the recipe yet.

Post Photo
like

Would you take a job for less salary if it was a less toxic environment than your current situation?

like

Need advice. I have a client who just can't stop getting in their own way. They push us to turn a document quickly (in this case, an LPA for a new fund), and then take weeks to review, following up with a 50-page chart setting forth the LPA sections and detailed questions/comments. I can't keep anyone on this client because their process is so brutally and unnecessarily time-consuming, and I can't keep pulling all-nighters just trying to respond to all the questions. What do I do?

like

How hard is it to move from freelance to full time in an agency? Chatting about a freelance strategist position at R/GA but don’t really want to give up the benefits of full time

like

Hi, I have two years bond for two lakhs
Served 1 year 3 months yet.
No project
Found a job for 6 lpa
Current package is 4

How to break bond without paying much bond amount
How much shud i be paying if I have to
Should I wait for the hike ?
Do they really give you a hike after 18 months???

like

So I finished my 3rd interview with a company and the TA specialist said they loved me but can’t meet me at my bottom line salary, however, I said I can negotiate and she said she’s going to speak with the decision makers and see if they’re okay with that. What does this mean? This is for a marketing specialist role. I’m asking for $70K bottom line

like
like

There should be an assessment test before people are allowed access to Outlook in EY!

funnylike

Hello! I'm looking to make a change into healthcare consulting. I have a B.S in public health and minor in biology and I've been working for a health insurance company for 2 years. Are there any healthcare recruiters or people with a similar education background in consulting be available for a coffee chat?

like

I’m assisting a wife enforce (not modify) a judgment of dissolution and wondering best way to frame petition to enforce. Husband is responsible for a mortgage on the residence and has ignored his obligation to hold the wife harmless and indemnify her from it, and she now has to pay it in bankruptcy. Does it make sense to ask court to enforce by order requiring husband to pay what wife has paid and secondarily seeking contempt and to purge husband has to submit to citation to discover assets?

like

How do you guys manage to option trade and stare at charts while also working on your actual day job? My most productive has been happening at 4 pm lol

like

Additional Posts in Women in Law

I quit. I was respectful. Thankfully, every person I have told has been so nice, and I wasn't immediately bounced out by my leadership (which has happened), but I have been surprised by my own bittersweet tears. If they actually cared, why didn't they say so sooner? I gave so much, and I was consumed by this organization. I invested in them, but my investment and dedication were not reciprocated, which is why I ever even entertained leaving. I don't know why it hurts, but it really, really does.

likehelpful

How would you feel about being proposed to on your birthday? Special surprise or overshadowing your day?

likefunny

Took my first vacation (1 week) in over a year to visit family. Was bombarded by emails from one partner asking me to complete non-time sensitive motions, which he hasn’t even bothered to review. This is my third firm in three years (first I left as I was severely underpaid, second I left for a 100k increase in salary), but this lack of respect for my boundaries has made me want to move again once I’ve completed 18 mos. Bad? They don’t do this to the other associates (all male).

like

Anyone have a MIL who is clearly intimidated by your prof success and consistently criticized how much you work and how you’re raising your little one?

likehelpful

Got laid off due to Covid in July. I have been searching for a job for three weeks. Diligently looking and applying. I keep getting rejection letters and Linkedin resume views, but no offers. Not even a single interview. My resume looks great and experience is amazing. Anyone else in the same boat? Misery needs company 😝

like

So I posted a bit ago about getting IV hydration and vitamins. You guys gave me the courage to try it. After I had it done, I didn't feel much of a difference and figured I just spent a bunch of $ to relax for an hour in a massage chair. 🤷🏼‍♀️ But this has been the best week I've had energy-wise in the last seven months. And I kind of wish I could post before/after pics because apparently I was very bloated. I've been focusing on keeping up with my hydration at home. Thx ladies!

likehelpful

If anyone here is in Maryland or has the Maryland bar and would like to consider a new opportunity, I'm working with a 50 attorney firm started by refugees from biglaw. They are looking for a real estate transactional attorney, an estate planning attorney, a tax attorney, and a corporate attorney. Feel free to reach out if you would like to hear about it.

like

I always hear the positive of in-house, what are the downsides of going in-house?

like

What’s the least amount of time you’ve stayed at a job before leaving and why? Was it ever an issue in the future?

like

Has anyone ever tried the Tracy Anderson method?

like

My husband & I are relocating to be closer to family next year. I always assumed I’d stay in my current role until the move, but things at work have become horribly toxic. I can’t stay in this environment for 10 more months. I’ve thought about trying to find a job in the new state that might let me start remote…but that feels like such a long shot. Any other recs? I’m feeling really hopeless & trapped recently.

like

I really want a bulletin board in my office for reminders to self and the like. But are bulletin boards juvenile? I don't feel like I see them in adult offices?

like

Anyone else deal with others passing judgment because of your age? I’m 30, married, and carry myself in a professional manner but still deal with random comments related to my age. Today I was complimented for my “maturity” for how I responded to a problem and it was shared that a partner or two also commented on my maturity. It rubbed me the wrong way and although these comments are less frequent now than when I first started my career, I still hear them and it’s bothersome.

like

I hung out this weekend with a work friend of mine. We’re both junior, but I’ve been on FMLA due to an unexpected illness so have been away for a bit. I know that I screwed up on some files before I was diagnosed which I feel awful about and have been trying to rectify (unpaid), but she spent a lot of time cataloguing the ways in which I messed up. It was supposed to be a nice weekend for once and I’m feeling more beat down than ever 😕 just not sure how to get the motivation/nerve to go back!

like

Black women…women of color. Do you notice anything different about how your superiors speak to you compared to your white counterparts? If so, have you attempted anything to address it? Ex: a reprimand meeting or corrective response by a partner.

like

Let’s talk about historical places to get married in 2022. Somewhere that has meaning. Preferably in the US. Would love to be a part of something bigger, to feel connected to generations before me, on my wedding day. I was curious what suggestions people would come up with, have fun with it!

like

Should I send an external email at 2am or send it the next day?

like

What are pros and cons of working for a government legal department and is it a good lateral move for career advancement?

like

I’m a mid level associate interviewing in Atlanta (non-lit). What are people’s thoughts on suit v. dress/blazer combo for interviews?

like

Just found out i did not pass the bar..any suggestions on how to muster up the confidence to take it again especially while now being full time and I have 2 kids.

like

New to Fishbowl?

Download the Fishbowl app to
unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
That was just a preview…
Sign Up to see all discussions
  • Discover what it’s like to work at companies from real professionals
  • Get candid advice from people in your field in a safe space
  • Chat and network with other professionals in your field
Sign up in seconds to unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.

Already a user?
Login here

Share

Embed this post

Copy and paste embed code on your site

Preview

Download the
Fishbowl app

See what’s happening in your industry
from the palm of your hand.

A phone with Fishbowl app

Send download link to your phone

OR

Scan your QR code to download
Fishbowl app on your mobile

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Messaging rates may apply

Download app

Sign up for free to view this conversation on Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Already have an account? Log in

Sign up for free to continue using Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use(New) and Privacy Policy(New)
Messaging rates may apply

Already have an account? Log in

For account settings, visit Fishbowl on Desktop Browser or

General

Legal