would you apply for a new job while trying to conceive?

[Anonymous]

I'm tired of my current job and really want something new. I'm planning to stay put for now and come back to my current job for a few months after my maternity leave before moving on. I want to stay for now to be able to take about 4 months off for maternity leave and because my job isn't demanding (good for being pregnant and with an infant, but not good long-term) and has reasonable hours. I would be applying for federal jobs when I do decide to apply, which seem to have a pretty slow hiring process. I think this makes sense from a practical standpoint, but I am really tired of my current job. I really want a baby ASAP, so we're not going to stop trying. Thoughts?

[Anonymous]

So you are TTC right now, applying for jobs, but don't expect to be starting a position until after you have finished maternity leave, right?

I would not do this, and here's why. You don't know how long it will take you to get pregnant. If it takes a while, and you are in the new job before the baby is born, you will need to take maternity leave from your new job. But you aren't eligible for FMLA leave unless you've been in a position for a year. So if apply now, and it takes 6 months before you get pregnant, and the new job start date is one year from now, you will be 6 months pregnant starting a new job with no leave eligibility for maternity leave.

[Anonymous]

Unless you have a crytal ball and know for sure that you will get pregnant I say that you should focus on your current problem - getting out of a job that you hate!

If you happen to get pregant during the interview process you can always stop and start again. If you get pregnant with the first 3 months of starting your new job then you will just have to take unpaid leave or just sick leave.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the reply. To clarify, I'm not applying for jobs now.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:So you are TTC right now, applying for jobs, but don't expect to be starting a position until after you have finished maternity leave, right?

I would not do this, and here's why. You don't know how long it will take you to get pregnant. If it takes a while, and you are in the new job before the baby is born, you will need to take maternity leave from your new job. But you aren't eligible for FMLA leave unless you've been in a position for a year. So if apply now, and it takes 6 months before you get pregnant, and the new job start date is one year from now, you will be 6 months pregnant starting a new job with no leave eligibility for maternity leave.

i disagree with this on the grounds of you can always turn down these jobs if it turns out the timing is bad later. just because you apply does not mean you have to take it. and by going thru the interview process, you may be able to make some contacts/generate some interest that could pay off later, when you are ready.

[Anonymous]

No, I wouldn't apply for a new job while trying to conceive. I don't know if the law has changed, but you had to be at a job for 1 year before you could use maternity leave benefits.

[Anonymous]

I started a new job May 1 and figured out I was pregnant May 14. I didn't have any idea since we were actively NOT trying. I have told my boss and it wasn't a big deal. He was very happy for me. I know I will have to figure out maternity leave since I won't qualify for FMLA but in the end my new job is much better so I am just happier!

[Anonymous]

You should it takes a really long time and by the time something comes through you may be ready to take it.

[Anonymous]

Both TTC and finding a job take time. I would not put off one in hopes that the other will come through.