The moment we look at the positive pregnancy test result, quavering in hand, the feeling can be quite overwhelming. Maybe you weren’t even planning to conceive and were taken by surprise or you had a difficult path to conception.
If everything about getting pregnant has gone totally as per your plan and you are on cloud nine seeing the two pink lines, the reality that your life is about to change forever can be extremely daunting.
If you are a working woman the most important thing that you got to think about is how to break the news of pregnancy at work? Well, once the reality dawns upon you and the initial shock and elation have worn off, it’s time for you to start thinking about the practicalities of life.
Perhaps you might share the news with immediate family, book an appointment with your doctor and much more. While all these things are important there is yet another thing that requires immediate attention. Yes, broaching the happy news of pregnancy at work with your boss.
When I first found out I was pregnant, the last thing I had on my mind was to tactfully break the news to my boss. Out of excitement and considering the nature of my happy-go-lucky boss I had shared the news immediately. However, with time and experience now I have realized it’s not always a good idea to abruptly share the news with your boss.
Here are some tried and tested tips by mums I have known in all these years to make sharing news of pregnancy go smoothly and without fuss:
Timing is everything
Call it out of superstition or the initial phase of those delicate 3 months you are not required to break the news to anyone. You can take these 3 months’ time to plan a way and decide upon the time to share the news with your boss.
If you’re due for a promotion, you might prefer to hear whether you got the job before deciding to break the news at work. Timing has a huge role to play at work and is largely subject to your personal experience and circumstances at work.
Keep in mind once you tell your boss about the news its ready to go public as well.
Know your rights at work
Before breaking the news to your boss do your homework and gather information around maternity leave policy in your company.
You could also check if there is any new mother at work who could give you a low down on basics. It’s good to have basic information under your belt before broaching this sensitive subject with your boss.
Have a plan in place
If you are working on some important project, have deliverables lined up and they are going to coincide with your due date it’s a good idea to approach your boss with a plan for the same.
Show that you are prepared and have planned everything so that work and deliverables don’t suffer. It’s good to be prompt at your work just like before and pregnancy wouldn’t affect your work.
Be professional and precise
Since you will be telling your boss for the first time it's better that you go prepared and share the news in a professional manner.
Do assure that the quality of work won’t get hampered and you will adhere to the deliverables if any. Also, you could calm them down by sharing a plan of action in the coming days.
It's advisable that you don’t commit on any dates and other logistics around coming back to work immediately after maternity leave gets over. Situations tend to change.
Don’t be scared or nervous
Being a working mum you might have your own apprehensions of being judged about your seriousness for your career. While these perceptions stand true in a few places, it's also true that they can’t be avoided.
Keep your head held high as it shows confidence about the upcoming change in your life regardless of how uncertain you might be feeling at the very moment.
Decide upon a place to share the news
While the news of pregnancy won’t change with the location, it certainly will play a huge role in how your next few months will shape out.
It’s not a good idea to share the news in a room full of onlookers or when the boss is not in a good mood.
Choose a day when you have had some great achievement at work and the boss is relaxed and relatively free to talk.
You could take your boss to a nearby coffee shop or carry along some pastries or cake in her/his cabin and share the news later.
Tell your boss first
Out of excitement you might want to share the news with your friends at work. However, we deter this and suggest you share the news with your boss first.
Trust me, any word of hint that goes to your boss might show you in a negative light. In fact, it even doesn’t look professional for your boss to know about it at last.
Similarly, if you are facing initial symptoms of pregnancy it’s a good idea to let the boss know beforehand about your pregnancy or the symptoms will speak for themselves.
Remember that there is no right or wrong way of breaking the news of the pregnancy to your boss. It’s a fact that the boss would be worried.
What will your pregnancy mean to their work? Will it have to replace you entirely or train someone else for a temporary period? Will you be joining back after maternity leave gets over?
We would suggest you do your best to let your boss know that together you can manage this time without letting work to suffer.
Just be open, honest, non-apologetic about your situation. You are pregnant!
FAQ's
Q. When is the right time to tell my boss I’m pregnant?
Ans.It’s best to wait until after the first trimester, around 12 weeks, when the risk of complications decreases. This gives you time to plan how and when to share the news strategically, especially if upcoming projects or promotions may influence your timing.
Q. How should I prepare before telling my boss about my pregnancy?
Ans.Gather all relevant information like company maternity leave policies, HR guidelines, and ongoing work commitments. Being informed helps you answer questions confidently and demonstrates that you’ve thought through the situation, making it easier for your boss to plan around your maternity leave.
Q. Should I tell my boss before my colleagues?
Ans.Yes, always inform your boss first. Sharing the news with colleagues before your superior can seem unprofessional and may create misunderstandings. Once your boss knows, you can discuss how and when to share the news with the rest of the team.
Q. What if I’m nervous about breaking the news at work?
Ans.It’s natural to feel nervous. Take time to rehearse what you’ll say, choose a calm and private setting, and focus on being honest yet professional. Remember, pregnancy is a natural part of life, and most workplaces are supportive of expecting mothers.
Q. How can I ensure work doesn’t suffer during my pregnancy?
Ans.Create a plan detailing your ongoing tasks, deadlines, and potential delegation of duties during your leave. Show initiative by preparing your team and ensuring smooth transitions. This proactive approach will reassure your boss about your commitment and professionalism.
Q. What if my boss reacts negatively to my pregnancy news?
Ans.Stay calm and composed. Remind yourself that you have legal rights and workplace protections. Address any concerns respectfully and emphasize your commitment to maintaining productivity. A professional attitude can often ease initial apprehensions or concerns from management.
Q. How should I choose the right time and place to share the news?
Ans.Pick a quiet, private moment when your boss isn’t busy or stressed. Avoid public spaces or high-pressure situations. A relaxed atmosphere—like a one-on-one meeting or casual conversation—helps ensure your message is received positively and with understanding.
Q. Should I mention my maternity leave plans immediately?
Ans.Not necessarily. You can briefly outline that you’ll plan your leave closer to the due date. Avoid committing to exact dates early on since pregnancy situations can change. It’s enough to reassure your boss that you’ll coordinate effectively when the time comes.
Q. How can I overcome workplace judgments during pregnancy?
Ans.Focus on your strengths, deliver your work efficiently, and maintain confidence. Some people may have misconceptions, but professionalism and consistency will help earn respect. Remember, pregnancy doesn’t define your capabilities—it’s a temporary phase that you can balance with your career.
Q. What should I do after sharing the news with my boss?
Ans.After informing your boss, follow up with HR to confirm maternity benefits and leave structure. Continue communicating transparently, stay focused on your work, and begin preparing for your maternity transition plan. Keeping everyone informed helps avoid confusion and ensures smooth coordination.
