Tips for Employers on How to Support Employees Going on Parental Leave

Here are some ideas for you to adopt for your employee who is about to go on parental leave:

• Help her to ensure there is a smooth transition of responsibilities to the person who will worming in her role while she is gone
• Talk now about possible flexible work options on her return – things may change but if you have the discussion now, she will appreciate it and it will give her something to think about. Research has shown that offering flexible work arrangements brings parents back to work sooner.
• Ask her how she would like to be communicated with while on leave – email or phone etc. Will she have remote access? Invite her in for team meetings when she is ready to venture out again. Always ask her to work events while she is away.
• Consider any ad hoc project based work. After a few months at home, she may be keen to do some work from home if you have work available. It can be a great way to earn a few dollars, keep her confidence up, and stay up to date with work.
• Direct her to websites like www.mychild.gov.au, www.fairwork.gov.au, www.careermums.com.au for helpful information and advice.
• Let her know that you would really like her to come back. We are all human and it is nice to know we are wanted. 
• Consider a gift when the baby comes. Perhaps some flowers and a little outfit for the baby.

You should be aware of the National Employment Standards (www.fairwork.gov.au). There are 2 standards specific to parents. Parents have the right to request flexibility now if they have children under 5 years of age. Primary carers can also take up to 24 months of parental leave now. Typically most parents are returning to work earlier than 24 months. If you offer flexibility (perhaps staggering is an option – so 2 days, then 3 days, then 4 days for example), they will more than likely come back to work sooner.
 
More information on a parental leave program
 
Consider our return to work coaching service when your employee returns. The first 6 months are critcial for first time parents in particular. Juggling work and family can be very difficult if there is no support at home or at work. Our return to work coaching service provides return to work parents with the opportunity to talk through the challenges they are facing and consider appropriate game plans and solutions.

For more information, contact Kate Sykes on 02 6161 0128 or email kate@careermums.com.au