OK, so maybe the title is a bit of a tall claim, but if I can’t shout about what I do, who else will! In a world where you can risk information overload through a simple internet search, I wanted to present to you this week a whistle-stop tour of the blogs you need to read when you are looking to return to work after parental or maternity leave. So, some may call it the best free return to work resources for parents on the internet. I call it, the blogs that I have written about returning to work that will help you feel confident and prepared. You can choose which title you like the most!
A quick note for those that are reading this to help their colleagues and team back to work. BRAVO. The world needs more people like you. Make sure that you a vocal and visible with the support you are giving the parents within your team. Don’t underestimate the influence this can have on the culture as a whole.
Now, back to the point in question; why do you need the best free return to work resources for parents?
Creating a career you enjoy, and developing the new and evolving version of YOU as a working parent is multifaceted. It’s not a one size fits all approach, and what everyone wants and need changes depending on their personal circumstances and their version of success.
Over the many years I have been supporting people in their careers and returning to work, there are several universal topics and issues. I’m hoping by sharing my thoughts, tips and techniques with you here today, it will make you feel more in touch with what ALL parents go through. Since originally publishing this in February 2020, new articles have been added to the blog – so it makes sense that I update this to makes sure it is a true one-stop shop!
This information is for a Mum or Dad who is returning to their employer after maternity or parental leave, rather than someone who is returning to work after a career break. THAT resource, my friend, will be with you soon!
Returning to work and feeling confident, in control and positive doesn’t happen without intention and goal setting, Sometimes it can help having a role model, or a mentor, someone who has “been there got the t-shirt”. If that isn’t an option, sometimes you can find that knowledge in a book. Here are eight great lessons to support your return to work, all from books, that may help.
An essential tool to help you transition back to work after your maternity or parental leave is a return to work induction. You can follow this plan to make it happen, and forward this article to your Manager or Supervisor to help them consider what they need to tell you! Make sure you are up to date with all of your legal rights, as well as company policy.
When you are getting ready to return, one thing that you may be considering is changing your working pattern. If that means submitting a flexible working request, then you need to have a look at my top points to apply and negotiate. You may be wanting a hybrid or remote pattern. If you are rejected, don’t fret, there are some next steps you can take.
Now, let’s talk about one of the forgotten issues of being a working parent. There will be days, usually when you have a VERY IMPORTANT MEETING, that you won’t have childcare. Be it school closures due to snow or the little one having chickenpox. So, before it becomes a massive issue, think about your Childcare Plan B.
One of the biggest concerns my return to work and career coaching clients have is feeling overwhelmed. As I can’t physically go into your office or workspace and take work from you, I can only offer you some tips around feeling less overwhelmed when you return to work. And let’s talk about the elephant in the room. WORKING PARENT GUILT. It doesn’t ever go away – so here are some ways to manage it.
We can’t talk about returning to work without thinking about sleep, or the potential lack of it! This blog, written by a guest blogger and expert, covers some amazing sleep tips for you and little one, whilst the book review of The Pocket Book of Sleep, gives overall sleep support beyond the early years! Making sure you look after your wellbeing is essential, so let me make sure you have these resources and advice available.
With extra responsibilities comes extra pressure, so use some tried and testing organisational techniques as well as having honest conversations about the realities of the mental load. You aren’t alone, it’s a recognised issue! This Q&A from my regular Ask Me Anything sessions covers having the conversation with your partner about the mental load; it shouldn’t land all on one person in a partnership.
On the flip side, many people (also) return to work with a new drive, expanded ambition and vigour to craft a career that enjoy; maybe it will give you the metaphorical kick to change direction? Don’t fret, there are things you can do right now to start that process. One of the ways you can help manage this new identity and transition is through return to work coaching. I can help you build a business case for this support, and let employers know that every parent and any time can access coaching support.
So, there you have in. The best free return to work resources for parents on the internet. Or, the things to consider when you are returning to work. Like all of my work, I hope these have been practical, accessible and easy to understand. When you are going through a big transition in your life, like returning to work, it can feel like an uphill climb. I hope that these top tips help your transition back to work, with confidence, excitement, and joy!
If want to join a group of over 500 parents and parents to be looking to create a career to enjoy. Then hop over to the Facebook Group and join in the conversation! With regular training, coaching, Q&As and support, it will help you focus and take control
I’m Clara Wilcox, a straight-talking, practical and experienced coach helping clients navigate the tricky waters of returning to work, career changes and professional development. The Balance Collective has a social mission, focused on improving the lives of parents, by working together to build inner confidence and promote a healthy work/life balance. Isn’t it time you had a career to enjoy, not endure? Talk to me NOW about how I can help.
Clara Wilcox is a straight talking, practical and experienced coach helping clients navigate the tricky waters of returning to work, career changes and professional development. The Balance Collective is a social enterprise focused on improving the lives of parents, by working together to build inner confidence and promote a healthy work/life balance.
