The Punctuated Career- return to full-time work after Maternity Break

How to get back to work after Maternity Leave.

I recently attended a  ‘Women in Business’ event on Networking and met Tracey Spicer- the Redcliff Bogan turned national Newsreader par excellence. Tracey has left an indelible impression on me with her talk.

On returning from maternity leave, she was given unimaginable shifts that ended at 12.30am Sunday night only to return at 7.30am on Monday.  She felt it was unfair but she carried on, but after her second maternity leave she was penalised with difficult working conditions, as the employer hoped that she would leave. This time she stood up for her rights to return to work and she decided to take the matter to Court. She won back her job in full. Hurrah to all women!!

She spoke of the power of networking, especially for women, as there still is a gender pay gap, and we are still in a place where equality is reminded not given everywhere.

First-time mothers can find the workplace to be especially isolating. As professionals, we are often instinctively guarded about our personal lives in the office. Among other things, newly pregnant women worry about morning sickness, maternity leave, future work-life balance, being judged or losing all the momentum they’ve built in their careers, to date.

We believe better information can make this period less stressful. To that end here are some  practical data and checklists to consider while preparing for your leave (and return) and maternity leave policies.

How do we use networking to our advantage authentically in a way that yields real benefits?

The important things to keep in mind are

a) your network evolves over time

b) the more diverse your network, the more likely an opportunity will pop up for you

c) doing favors for other people and connecting with them about real things (including your transition to motherhood, back to work, etc.)

This is how you build a strong network that lasts and evolves. Don’t be afraid to ask other women questions, share your experience and be honest. It will pay off.

Tracy’s mother was a trailblazer ,being the first woman courier driver in Queensland. Be the role model for your children and pave the path for the future.