Dear Gen@Work,
I am considering going part-time after the birth of my first child in a few months. My husband makes more money than I do and with a little belt-tightening, we will be able to make ends meet. My concern is that it will be tough for me to recover my earning potential long-term. I don’t want to derail my career. What do you think?—Future Mom in Illinois
Generation X Perspective: Magan Crane
Dear Mom-to-Be,
First, congratulations on impending motherhood. Getting ready for such a dramatic change is so exciting, but there are lots of difficult decisions and they all seem terribly momentous. And of course, none seem as momentous as working. Full-time, part-time, stay home? Sometimes the luxury of choice seems like a burden, right? And any choice seems to thrust you right into the middle of the dreaded Mommy Wars. Ugh. But fret not. The right solution for your family (not your sister’s family, your neighbor’s family, or your boss’s family) is out there and you will find it.
To your question, I think the idea of working part-time is a great option; you are lucky to have it. There is not that much meaningful part-time work out there and if can find a position that allows you to keep your skills fresh and maximize your Mom time, that’s great. You are right that your long-term earning potential will be hurt. But it might be worth the hit to spend more time at home during the precious first few months or years of your baby’s life. You can minimize the impact by proving yourself committed to your career by giving work your full attention while you are on the job. Let your boss know—both in words and actions—that while you are at work, your mind is at work. Dress for success. Try to keep personal responsibilities, like doctor appointments and errands, to your days off. Also, if you intend to return to a full-time schedule in at some point, let them know. That is probably the best way to avoid ending up on their “Mommy track” forever.
Boomer Perspective: Marilynn Mobley
Dear Future Mom,
Congratulations on your first baby! I hope you enjoy being a mother as much as I have for the past twenty-two-plus years.
You didn’t indicate what line of work you’re in, so I don’t know how realistic or practical it is to work part-time. Still, I would certainly encourage you to be creative. Ask whether it’s possible to work at home while your child is young. Many companies are open to this idea, especially for their best employees. Also, look into job sharing or perhaps even consider how you might continue your career as an entrepreneur, rather than working for someone else.
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