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Ask the Expert: Finding Balance Natalie Gahrmann is a success coach and owner of N-R-G Coaching Associates, a private coaching company that specializes in helping working parents achieve mastery of work and life. Her clients experience more clarity, direction and alignment while reducing stress in their busy lives.
Pregnant While InterviewingDonelle writes, "I applied for a position over 6 months ago, and finally got a call for an interview. I am currently working as a long term temp. The job is with a HUGE corporation, and I am now 4 1/2 months pregnant. Do I dress to disguise my pregnancy, and avoid telling them? If so, how do I handle the fact that they will feel deceived, if I do get the position? And will they have to guarantee I will still have a position when I return from maternity leave, because I won't qualify for FMLA, being there less than a year? "Answer: Questions such as yours come up frequently. Although there is no definitive answer, you need to be within your own integrity when moving forward. Being in integrity is about being whole/complete, living your truths, being honest and forthright. The fact is, you have not been offered a position yet or chosen to accept one that was offered. You are anticipating issues that have not yet arisen. In the present, you are in a long-term temporary position. This position will inevitably end at some point. It seems that this HUGE corporation is moving rather slowly to fill the position. Perhaps, if you are the right person for the job, they will be willing to work around it. According to the laws, you cannot be denied employment based on your pregnancy. In reality, though, it's hard to prove an alleged discrimination. Personally, I believe firmly in telling the truth. This doesn't mean that you need to broadcast your pregnancy. Rather, be discreet and professional. Focus on your strengths and what you can contribute to the Corporation. Check with your State Agencies for laws where you live regarding reinstatement after maternity leave. Also, since you are interviewing at a HUGE corporation, see if you can find out through an internal contact what their policies are regarding this. You may be entitled to at least a short-term leave for disability and some paid leave for care of newborn. FMLA sets forth the minimum of what's required. Employers can provide more than what's expected.
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