Handling resignation after maternity leave...

MrsPrice

I have been planning for the past 2 years to make a career change from journalism into teaching.  I want to be a English Language Arts teacher and teach journalism and media courses at the middle school or high school level.  Eventually when I get all of my pre-requisites out of the way at the community college I am going to enroll in the career switcher program.  Well, I just came across a job opening at the local schools as for a Media and Production Instructor.  They are looking for someone who is eligble for a teaching license but has a degree in Journalism and Mass Communications, which I do. I thought this is a wonderful opportunity and I applied.  I haven't gotten an interview yet, but if I did and got the job how do I handle letting my current employer know without burning bridges?  I am at the end of my maternity leave and suppose to be back at work on Sept 2.  They are all expecting me back and I said I was coming back, but if I got this job I would definitely accept it because it would be a great opportunity for my career switch.

kate1011

I would be honest with work and tell them it was a surprise, that at the time of taking maternity leave you were anticipating coming back to work for them.  Do they know you're wanting a career change? if so that would make it much earsier...  Good luck.

Kristin131

I agree with PP. It's not like you're going to a competing company, you are completely switching your career! I had a friend that was an interior designer and decided to go back to school to be a math teacher. About 2 months before she was going to leave to go to school full time, we were told there were going to be layoffs. She went to our boss and told him that she was changing careers anyways and he really respected her for that. I know it's a different situation but I think your boss will respect you for being honest. Yes they will be upset but they should be happy that you will be doing something that makes you happy.

megann831

When I go out on maternity leave I plan on looking for a position in another district, but I won't say anything to my current school in case I don't get another job.  Someone at the school where my mom works did this and they made her pay back all of her benefits from her maternity leave, so just check that you won't be responsible for something like that.  

beenbizzy

If it all falls into place like you hope (and I hope for you!) then I would just tell your boss that it was unplanned, but fell into your lap.  Also, if you are planning on going back Sept 2, there is a good chance that will still need to be your plan.  Even if you interview and are offered position as early as next week, you will still need to give 2 weeks notice.   Good luck!