TTC and a new job?

Hi Ladies-I was just wondering what your opinion on TTC & work/careers were? I know people say they’d never put off TTC because of vacations; weddings; family reunions etc. But what about work? Would you put TTC before career changes; or go ahead with a career change and then focus on TTC?

A little background-I’ve been on my job 4 years 9 months; in 3 months when I make 5 years I become vested with my company (I get my pension and other stock benefits given to me). I also earn 1 extra week (5 days) of vacation. I enjoy what I do; but do not love it. I really want to find a job that I love; and allows me to have a better work/life balance. The thing is I see positions out there I want to apply for; but I think I my mind that since we want to start TTC in Jan (right when I hit 5 years) then it’s best to stay put. With my years of service I get my full 12 weeks paid maternity leave; plus I’ll have the flexibility to leave for doctor appointments; where at a new job I’d feel nervous asking to leave early/come in late/take days off as needed. Plus I’ve got a little seniority so although no job is ever guaranteed; at least I’m not risking starting a new job & all those uncertainties with the added stress of being pregnant &/or having a new born. I can have all these doubts of starting a new job; but on the flip side…what if my new company is really supportive of working moms? Maybe even better then my job now (I can hardly take a day off; let a lone a sick day b/c of work demands). Just don’t know what to do; so I figured I’d ask my felling TTC’ers

TIA!!

Re: TTC and a new job?

It is a hard call! Honestly...if you aren't happy where you are, it would be much easier to make a change now in your job than after you have a baby. It is you and your DH's decision though....go with your gut! Good luck!!

Re: TTC and a new job?

I was in the same position as you - I ended up staying where I am now. I found it better because I didn't have to wait the 3 months so that if I got pg on the 1st try after 9 months I would be there 1 year and I could finally get FMLA.
I just felt that in long run, I have been here 5 years, more vacation, more flexibility - my job knows me and what I am capable of. If I am running late because the baby has a dr appt or I have to leave early due to a babysitter issue - I can do that.
You have to weigh your options and make the best choice for you
You can always stay and start to look for more of a work/life balance while you are on maternity leave - jsut a thought
GL

Re: TTC and a new job?

Thanks!

I could always stay where i am for a little while longer then look for a new job AFTER my maternity leave. As much as i dislike my job sometimes; i know it's probably best to take advantage of the full maternity benefits i will get; and flexibility to leave for doctors appointments and so forth during the pregnancy.

It's nice to think that I'll possibly be off from work on maternity leave this time next year!

Re: TTC and a new job?

I have days accumulated and decided to have a baby before I look for another job. Im taking an extended maternity leave to decide if I still feel the same way.
I decided to have my baby first bc it would take at least 1 yr at a new job before I would consider ttc.

Re: TTC and a new job?

Re: TTC and a new job?

you have to be with a company for 1 full year before you are entitled to FMLA.

I did switch jobs as I started TTC. For me it was a no brainer career wise, and I put off TTC for 3 months so I could be at my 1 yr anniversary if I needed FMLA.

Your career is important - but I find it really does take a back seat to mommy duties. As my DC gets older, the juggling act gets harder every day.

Good Luck!!!!!!