"issues" in telling my boss (a bit long, sorry)

jetgrrrl

So, my boss is also pregnant (slightly behind me in fact). So far I have not told her about my status despite the fact that we've talked a good bit about her pregnancy. I have felt terrible not saying anything, but DH and I felt strongly about not telling people before the end of first tri - we haven't even told his family yet.

Here's the thing - all the stuff I've read on telling your boss advises you to go in with a plan of how you will train other people to do your work, etc. Well, we have a very small department, and in fact I'd almost bet that she planned on giving me a pretty major role in running things while SHE was on maternity leave (our leaves will at least partly coincide). Also, she is the person who would have picked up most of my slack while I was out. On top of this, I would like to propose that I go part time after I return, but that is not something I plan to broach now. About the only thing I could offer her is the possibility that I will work from home while on maternity leave, and considering I won't get a day more than the law requires, the idea of giving up what little I have makes me feel resentful.

So, I can't really offer her a plan for what to do with my role and I may well be taking away her own Plan B. It's also awkward that I have known about her pregnancy and haven't said anything about mine. I know that personally she'll be happy for me but it does create a major headache for her work-wise. Any advice on how to handle this conversation?

mrsmel

don't let her make this personal. she needs to deal with your leave like a boss, not a pregnant lady getting screwed out of her dream plan. you deserve the leave as much as she does.

i wouldn't worry about having all the answers when you tell. all you have to say is that you'll work with the company to create a smooth transition. that's all you can do.

AutumnBride929

Well, I am sure she will be happy and the two of you together can put your brains together and think of a plan!  Two brains are better than one!  It will all work out... there's no way for it not to!  Maybe you both can hire some temps to train to do whatever it is they need to do and there must be some other people in your dept. that will be able to help as well.

MrsJY

I wouldn't stress out about it.  Once you tell her I'm sure things will work themselves out.  Personally I wouldn't want to work from home on leave (from what I understand it is short in the states).  I'd want to enjoy what little time I had with my new baby.  Good luck!!

KrystalD7

I dont think you should stress too much. I undersand this situation seems hopless right now, but im sure it will work out! You are entitled to your full mat leave, and should be robbed of that. This is a very special time in your life, that you will never get back. Maybe leave you options open, but I wouldnt be the one to suggest that. Tell her your happy news, and then play it by ear! She will have to come around, legally you are entitled to that time! Good luck!

madladybride

Personally, I'd only volunteer to work from home AFTER I had used up all of my leave. I would definitely NOT do it during my leave, unless they would count them as work days not leave days.

 It will all work out.

 Good luck.

NewMrs07

I think it might be time to tell her you're pregnant, the more you wait the worse it will be, especially since she's pg too. Once you tell her, she's the boss so I think she's the one who should come up with the plans for when you're both on maternity leave. Maybe she needs to hire a temp. Many companies do that. Don't stress, offer your help and suggestions but leave it up to her to iron out the details, it's her responsibility as the boss. Good luck!