You are pregnant, and you are looking for a job. You may have been laid off from your last position or decided to re-enter the workforce after being at home with the kids.
Either way, you might be worried that your condition could affect your chances of securing a new job. Even though it is illegal for employers to discriminate against women based on pregnancy; yet, it still happens.
Fortunately, you can take steps to ease some of these concerns and land a job despite your condition. Here is a look at how to get a job search for pregnant women in 2023.
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Table of contents
Pregnancy and Employment
Under the PDA it is unlawful for an employer to refuse to hire a woman because of her pregnancy, because of a pregnancy-related condition, or because of the prejudices of co-workers, clients, or customers.
It also is unlawful for an employer to single out pregnancy-related conditions for medical clearance procedures that are not required for employees who are similar in their ability or inability to work. An employer may not deny employment opportunities to a pregnant employee if she is able to perform her job.
In addition, an employer may not discriminate against an employee who chooses not to have an abortion after learning she was pregnant. An employer also may not force a pregnant employee to take leave if they can provide another reasonable accommodation. For example, modifying work schedules and light-duty assignments may allow an employee to continue working during her pregnancy.
Many states also require reasonable accommodations for employees who are pregnant or have pregnancy-related conditions, such as lactation breaks or a place to pump breast milk or modifications of workplace policies (such as lifting restrictions).
If they have discriminated you against during the job search process because of pregnancy, disability, or another reason, contact an experienced employment attorney in your state. He or she can help you understand whether your experience was illegal and what steps to take next.
What Kind of Jobs Should Pregnant Women Do?
The job type suitable for pregnant women can vary greatly depending on their health, abilities, and circumstances. Pregnant women should prioritize their health and their baby’s health when considering job options.
Jobs that expose pregnant women to harmful substances, dangerous conditions, or excessive physical demands may not be advisable. High-stress or emotionally demanding jobs may also impact their mental well-being during pregnancy.
Flexibility in work hours, breaks, or the ability to work from home may be important for pregnant women as their pregnancy progresses. Seeking medical advice from a healthcare provider is crucial to ensure the job is compatible with the woman’s health and pregnancy status.
Discussing potential job modifications or accommodations with employers may also be beneficial to create a safe and supportive work environment. Ultimately, pregnant women should carefully assess the specific demands of the job and prioritize their health and safety, seeking professional guidance when necessary.
Top 10 Best Jobs for Pregnant Women
Many pregnant women want to know how they can work while they are pregnant and what jobs they can do. There are many options, depending on your health, how far you are in your pregnancy and your skills.
Here’s a list of the top ten jobs for pregnant women:
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#1. Web Designing
This is one of the best jobs for pregnant women with computer skills. You’ll be able to work from home or in an office, depending on your comfort level.
Many web designers work freelance, but you can also get a full-time job in web design.
#2. Consulting
If you have expertise in something, you can consult with companies and other individuals who need your knowledge.
Consulting is great for pregnant women because it gives you a flexible schedule and the ability to earn money without heavy lifting or being on your feet all day.
#3. Virtual Assistant
Virtual assistants do many types of tasks for small businesses or individuals who need help with administrative items such as scheduling appointments or preparing documents for meetings.
You can easily do these tasks from home when you’re not feeling well or need more rest during your pregnancy.
#4. Sales/Customer Service Representative
Sales and customer service reps need to be able to talk to people over the phone or internet throughout their work.
#5. Teaching Job
This job is also suitable for pregnant women because in this job you have to do less work and get more money.
For example, if you want to teach English or Mathematics in an academy, then you can teach them from home through online classes as well as through YouTube channels or blogs.
#6. Cooking Lessons
You can earn money by teaching cooking or recipes online from home and through YouTube channels and blogs.
For example, if you know how to make noodles or pasta dishes at home, then you can share your recipe on YouTube channel and earn money from it.
#7. Transcriptionist
Transcriptionists listen to audio recordings made by doctors and lawyers or other professional people and convert the information to written form. You can work from home while being able to take breaks as needed during your pregnancy.
#8. Freelance Writer
Freelance writers complete a variety of writing tasks based on a client’s needs. Some writers write articles, blog posts, and book reviews while others write content specifically directed at online visitors.
If you aren’t sure what kind of freelance writing to undertake, sign up with a company such as Demand Studios that pays writers based on the number of words they write.
#9. Graphic Design
Graphic design is a career that allows you to work from home. There are many opportunities for freelancing and starting a business from home.
If you have a computer and the proper software, you can get paid to design greeting cards, logos, posters, brochures, and other media without leaving your home.
#10. Secretary
An office manager’s job can be physically straining, especially when she has to rush from one department to another. This is why it is important for an office manager to have assistants.
If you are a pregnant woman, you can make use of this opportunity and work as an assistant to the office manager.
You will be able to sit down most of the time and attend to your duties in a relaxed way. You will also be given tasks that do not require much physical exertion.
Applying and Interviewing for Jobs While Pregnant
So you’re pregnant and job hunting. While this may be a scary time, rest assured that your pregnancy does not have to get in the way of your career. It may even work to your advantage.
Applying and interviewing for jobs while pregnant is not easy. Depending on your comfort level and your stage of pregnancy, you may be more or less eager to share this news with potential employers. The good news is that there are options available to you.
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Can You Disclose Your Pregnancy?
If you’re pregnant and interviewing for jobs, you might feel conflicted about whether you should disclose your pregnancy to potential employers. While the law says you can’t ask applicants if they are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, it also says you can’t hide it when it is obvious. The best advice is to not bring up your pregnancy unless asked about it or unless you are so far along that it is impossible to hide.
The Bottom Line: It is always better, to be honest with hiring managers regarding your pregnancy and family situation. While some companies may not realize how much potential value you bring to their organization because of these factors, others will see them as an asset and want to hire someone like you who has a strong future commitment to their company.
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Tips to Help You Learn How to Get Job Search for Pregnant Women
While many companies are being more flexible about when and how to share this news, it’s important to be prepared for the process.
Here are five tips to help you navigate the hiring process while pregnant:
1) Know your rights and company policy
Most companies have a maternity policy outlining the benefits of having a child. Understanding your rights at work such as coverage for a newborn child, paid parental leave, adoption assistance, and flexible work arrangements can help you negotiate the best possible arrangement for your new role.
Since many company policies vary by state, it’s important to understand how long you’re required (and expected) to be away from work as well as what your options are while you’re out.
#2. Be prepared to answer questions about pregnancy
Many interviewers assume that expecting mothers won’t want to travel or commit to working long hours, so they ask questions like, “Will you be able to travel?” or “Do you plan on taking a lengthy maternity leave?” You should prepare thoughtful responses that address these concerns ahead of time.
For example, if the job requires travel and you’re comfortable with that commitment, make sure the interviewer is aware of it. It’s also helpful to share when your due date is and whether or not.
#3. Start looking early
If you’re still in your first trimester, wait until the second trimester before starting your job search. Tell potential employers that you aren’t planning on changing your schedule for the first few months (or if you’ve had miscarriages in the past, that you’re waiting until the end of your first trimester).
Just be aware that pregnancy tests have become so sensitive that it may not be possible to hide a very early pregnancy completely.
#4. Consider how much time off you will need
If you’re due during the summer and plan on returning after six weeks of maternity leave, then you can apply for jobs as usual and probably won’t need to mention your pregnancy during the interview process. If you’d like to take a full year off or plan on working part-time once you return, then you should look.
#5. Talk about what you can do, not what you cannot do
During interviews, focus on what abilities and skills you bring to the table that would make you a great candidate for the job, not any concerns about whether you’ll be able to perform certain tasks because of your pregnancy. If passed over for a job because of concerns about your ability to do the job because of your pregnancy, there could be legal recourse against the employer for discrimination under the PDA.
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Conclusion
Ultimately, being pregnant during the interview process doesn’t have to be a hindrance to your career growth. With a little advanced planning and a positive outlook, you can get through the interview process with flying colors. You just want to make sure that they prepare you for all the additional pre-work that comes with interviewing while pregnant.
References
- flexjobs.com – Job Searching While Pregnant: Things to Consider
- thebalancecareers.com – How to Job Search While You’re Pregnant
- whattoexpect.com – Applying for and getting a Job While Pregnant
- theinterviewguys.com – 20 Best Jobs for Pregnant Women For 2023
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