Dr just put me on medical restriction - how to broach the subject with difficult boss

[Anonymous]

My dr just put me on medical restriction, to work from home. How do I discuss with my difficult boss?

[Anonymous]

How far along are you? How is your boss difficult? How long is the restriction? What kind of leave do you have? Are you planning on coming back?

[Anonymous]

I'm 33 weeks. I can (and do) work from home a couple days a week, so this would increase the days WFH. I plan on going on maternity leave a week before my due date. She's difficult because she's demanding/self-centered.

[Anonymous]

Let the doctor's note speak for itself. Use as few words as possible. Say that you will get your work done, no matter where you are. Imagine putting on protective armor before talking with your boss - let her emotion reaction just bounce off you.

[Anonymous]

OP, what's important to your boss? If public opinion is important to her, frame your discussion in a way that will flatter her self-image. Etc. Make this discussion about her and what's good for her.

[Anonymous]

Are you planning on going back to work after the baby? I'd sit down and write out your plan -- what you'll be able to do from home, hours worked, reassigning any work, etc. Then meet with boss and present both your plan and the doctor's note. Hopefully she'll appreciate the thought you've put in to it, and you can acknowledge that this isn't anyone's top choice, but you'll need her support and are willing to make the transition easy for all involved. Good luck to you!

[Anonymous]

Legally, I think your boss may have to accommodate you. Of course that could mean putting you on disability and not working but since you already work from home, she will probably want to keep having you work. When I went through this, the thing I did not do well was communicate what I needed. I was trying to defer and let my boss decide but she really needed to know what she was supposed to do. We kind of went around and around. Once it was clear what the doctor wanted, she was fine. It took her a few days to get it all worked out up the chain. Be as clear as possible what your doctor wants and when you need that to begin.