The ‘before’

The checklist for getting ready for parenthood typically includes items such as a stroller, baby clothes, and a changing table. Yet, preparing your home for the new arrival is just one facet. It is also a good idea to consider your future career plans. Most importantly, individuals should actively engage in dialogues with themselves, partners, and employers concerning parental leave and its implications for their careers. 

A significant aspect of this preparation involves viewing your employer not just as an entity but as a collaborative partner in this change in your life. Recognizing the employer's role in supporting and facilitating the balance between professional duties and parenthood is key. Hence, initiating conversations with your employer about the upcoming changes and establishing a collaborative approach is an important step. Discuss career aspirations and make a joint plan on both your departure for parental leave as well as coming back to work again. 

Engaging in dialogue with your partner about planning parental leave is crucial. Discuss how responsibilities are managed, delineate household roles, and consider how your career aspirations align with family plans. Initiate this dialogue early to ensure shared concerns, ideas, and reflections before the baby arrives.

The ‘during’

Your intuition during leave might not align with your employer's actions, as they might default to respecting privacy, potentially overlooking the value of keeping in touch. It is important to communicate your preferences; let them know whether you would like to be invited to social gatherings during your leave or if you prefer peace to acclimate to your new role as a parent.

While career progression concerns are valid, it's important to remember that career paths do not have to be linear. Proactively negotiating leave terms and discussing childcare solutions are critical steps. Surprisingly, few are aware of their rights to engage in salary discussions during this period.

Parenthood triggers a restructuring of the brain, fostering qualities like increased support, empathy, and patience - traits that are beneficial for leadership and team collaboration. Take note of these transformations and consider the unique perspectives you will bring back to your professional role.

The ‘after’

Returning to work after parental leave can be challenging. It's common to feel overwhelmed balancing work duties while simultaneously juggling thoughts about packing cucumber slices for lunch, ensuring your child has remembered their raincoat at daycare, and realizing you've run out of Vanish at home. 

However, it's crucial to acknowledge that adapting to a new way of living is part of this process. 

Time management is key as a parent, and reevaluating values and restructuring time allocation is essential. Embrace the fact that being a parent adds valuable skill sets to your professional repertoire -  you become adept at working under pressure, problem-solving, and navigating dynamic changes in your environment. That is why you should always put your parental leave on your resume! 

If the adjustment feels overwhelming and time proves to be scarce, consider discussing options with your employer, such as restructuring work hours or exploring more flexible schedules to better align with your new priorities.

Final pieces of advice to note for when the time comes for you:

1. Recognize that your boss may not initiate conversations during your leave, assuming a preference for privacy - a norm often associated with leave. Challenge this on beforehand and underline your preference. 
2.  Demand that your manager carefully considers how your role will be managed in your absence, the transition plan, and the support they will provide upon your return.
3. Highlight your leave experience on your resume, it is a valuable aspect of your personal and professional growth.
4. Keep an open and honest dialogue with your surroundings!