Securing My Dream Job While 6 Months Pregnant

As I sat in the car, trying not to throw up, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of nerves and excitement. Swishing a piece of candy between my tongue and teeth, one of the few things that calmed my uneasy stomach, I glanced at the clock. My job interview was starting in just a few minutes, and I was six months pregnant.

It was a freezing, mid-December day in New Jersey as I took off my worn-out boots and squeezed my swollen feet into a pair of flats. Adjusting my XL sweater-and-shirt combo, I waddled towards the front door, trying to gather my thoughts and emotions.

The decision to apply for a new job while pregnant was not an easy one. I had been commuting four grueling hours every day on a bus from New Jersey to a demanding assistant role at a fast-paced media company in New York City. With no financial support from my baby’s biological father and no money saved up, I knew that working closer to home and family was the best move for both me and the baby on the way.

As I prepared for the interview, I couldn’t stop asking myself, “What am I thinking?” But I had no choice. I needed to secure a stable job for the future of my child. Despite the challenges and uncertainties, I knew I had to push forward.

A few weeks prior to my in-person interview at a New Jersey-based advertising agency, I started researching what it’s like to apply for a job while pregnant. I had never personally heard of anyone doing it, and my Google searches left me with little to no advice. It wasn’t until I reached out to my former career management professor, who was well-versed in hiring laws, that I gained some reassurance. He confirmed that it was legal to apply for a job while pregnant and encouraged me to go for it.

Armed with this newfound confidence, I approached the interview with determination. Minutes before the interview, I imagined every possible scenario that could go wrong. I was prepared to present myself as the best candidate for the job, focusing on my skills and experience rather than my pregnancy. The interview went well, and I felt a connection with the staff, despite being the only pregnant person there.

After anxiously waiting for a response, I received an email from the company with a job offer. The hardest part was yet to come – I had to disclose my pregnancy. With a mix of excitement and panic, I drafted multiple responses before finally mustering the courage to inform them about my pregnancy and negotiate my salary.

To my surprise, the company not only accepted my pregnancy but also congratulated me on it. They were supportive throughout my pregnancy, throwing me a baby shower and even providing financial assistance for my maternity leave. Upon my return, I was offered a promotion and raise, solidifying my belief that no one should feel insecure about their pregnancy in the workplace.

Deciding when to disclose your pregnancy to an employer can be tricky, but ultimately, it’s up to you. Remember to focus on your strengths and enthusiasm for the position, and don’t feel guilty about your pregnancy. If you face discrimination, know that you can file a charge with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

In conclusion, my experience of interviewing while pregnant taught me the importance of self-confidence and perseverance. No matter the challenges we face, we should never doubt our worth in the workplace, whether we’re expecting or not.