The Pregnant Job Hunter

Many companies do not hire pregnant women. Even if they are highly qualified. They often state that the standard 2 months leave women take to recover from childbirth would interfere with their jobs and that some women take extended leave to take care of children. They would rather the job applicant tries again after giving birth.

2 years after my second job, I went job hunting. I found an exciting sales job with a vendor that would require me to travel. I quit my job and went for it. It never occured to me that I was pregnant at that time.

By the time I started on my new job, morning sickness had taken its toll on me. I felt really sick. Everything that had a smell, whether perfume, lemon, garlic or onions made me want to throw up. It was really bad. Every one who came out of the wash room made me want to throw up. Every woman that walked past me made me sick as her perfume wafted past my nose. I did not last 1 month in that job. I really could not work.

As I got better, I started job hunting out of necessity. Our reserves were low and we needed money for the doctor's bills, the hospital fees and for the baby when he comes into this world.

The odds were against me. My friends advised me to give up the job hunt. Interview after interview led to rejections as they saw my ever expanding belly. A friend checked with her manager about a job vacancy in the company. The reply was not to even try as they do not hire pregnant women.

Finally, I was offered a job at another vendor. It was back to my old line of work. I was hired for my mainframe experience. Few people were willing to do mainframe then. I wanted to get out of mainframe too, but beggars can't be choosers. I finally landed a job that would help pay the bills. Ironically, my new colleagues were surprised that I was hired. That company had a policy against hiring pregnant women, but they made an exception for me.

If you are pregnant and in need of a job, don't be discouraged. Try going for something you are most experienced in and don't be choosy. Also, don't wear those floral, maternity housecoats to interviews. Get smart outfits in plus sizes instead. You'll look more professional that way. During the interview, focus on your experience and capabilities. If you are hired, you should come up front to let them know you are pregnant. If they accept you, then good. If not, they would find out eventually and you could lose the job. It would be even harder to find another job later into your pregnancy. Above all, don't despair. You'll find your way. Be happy. You happiness or depression affects your baby.

More about pregnancy and motherhood at Baby