Advice needed - Interviewing/meeting recruiters when visibly pregnant?

Lady2010

Hi Ladies - 

Some of you who may know me from TTC>35 or IF may know that my company had a change in strategy late last year and eliminated my team at the end of the year.  I took some time off and have been looking since Jan/Feb but the market here has been a challenge - very little for what I am looking for.  But I have been networking, etc.  I was recently introduced to some folks, one of whom introduced me to a recruiter.  I just had a great call with him, and he wants to meet tomorrow to sit down and chat about potential opps.

I did not mention I was pregnant, and the person who introduced me to him does not know (I met her 2 weeks ago and just wore a looser top so it wasn't obvious).  I am now looking very pregnant so I am sure when I walk in tomorrow it will be obvious.  (I am heading out to see if I can find a nice top that hides it more - paired with a jacket and maybe it won't be noticeable!)

My question - have any of you been in a similar situation and what has the reaction been?  This isn't a hiring manager, but a recruiter - so I guess technically he can ask me whereas a hiring manager can't.  Any advice or recommendations are appreciated!  Thank you!

BeckyP005

Oh gosh I wish I had some great advice! It's probably too late but I would of also posted this on the Working Moms board to see if anyone has been in this similar situation.

Fx that this meeting goes well! Let me know! Not sure what I would do besides asking all my friends their opinions I can't make a decision if my life depended on it.

Lady2010

Thanks @BeckyP005!  Of course when I was on my way home from the Destination Maternity I got a call from the recruiter - he moved the meeting to Monday morning.  Which is better for me - gives me more time.

I bought a pair of black slacks and a top that is not fitted, and will put a jacket on over.  Will try it on for DH this weekend to get his thoughts, and also will ask my friend what she thinks I should do - meeting her today for lunch (she has 2 kids and I believe was looking when she was pregnant with her 2nd).  And will also ask this on the working moms board - thanks for the tip!

MsMacual

I contract and my last contract ended in July- I'm due in October so I've pretty obivously pregnant.  There is not easy answer, IMO.  I've started telling the HR person or agency recruiter that I'm pregnant so we can strategize.  I'll be honest- it's been hit or miss at times- some places have been more receptive than others and I definitely have encountered at least one blatent discrimination situation. 

My personal feeling is that I would rather be upfront about being pregnant because I think that it shows that you are honest and are very interested in the position and organzation.  Good luck- it is a tricky road, but I truly believe that being pregnant is a non issue for the right fit of person and organization.