Instructions

• 1). Schedule a meeting with your boss to discuss the return to work two to three weeks before the end of your maternity leave. Don't assume your return will be business as usual, but rather, understand your boss' expectations and communicate any special needs or requests, such as the inability to work late without advance notice or a private place to pump breast milk. Discuss the hours you'll be working, your explicit responsibilities and whether you are expected to respond to calls or emails during evening or weekend hours. If you plan to request a flexible schedule that includes non-traditional hours, working remotely or working part time, prepare a written proposal to illustrate the request and address potential pitfalls from the employer's point of view. This meeting can present an opportunity to re-connect with colleagues before your official return and to stay current on office developments. Plus, it is a perfect opportunity to re-establish your commitment to the workplace and proactively address potential issues and concerns.
  
  
• 2). Find competent child care. The return to work will be considerably easier if you are confident your child is receiving exceptional care in your absence. Research day care options and nanny services to find the right fit for your family, and if a relative will be caring for your child, establish ground rules and expectations before your return to the work force. Schedule a trial run with the child care provider before your first day back -- perhaps during the meeting with your boss -- to make the transition less abrupt and to address any issues while your options are still open.
  
  
• 3). While at work, focus on work. Avoid the temptation to check in with your child's caregiver repeatedly, and limit the stories you share with colleagues to a professional number. New parents are often pleasantly surprised by their enhanced multi-tasking abilities (which stem from some combination of adrenalin and panic), so use these skills to make your time in the workplace more efficient. Similarly, while you are at home in the mornings or evenings, focus on your children. Avoid distractions and instead use the post-bedtime hours to respond to emails and schedule calls.
  
  
• 4). If you plan to nurse, find an appropriate place to pump breast milk during the day. Understand your company's policies with respect to nursing moms, and investigate your legal rights, which vary by state. The ideal place for pumping has a table, a chair, an electrical outlet and a lock on the door for privacy. Practice using your breast pump before the first day back at work and schedule time during the day to pump.
  
  
• 5). Set up periodic status review meetings with colleagues to review expectations and performance, especially if your return to work includes a flexible work arrangement. Ask for feedback from your boss about your performance post-baby, and encourage subordinates to communicate issues so they may be resolved. Address concerns that are brought to your attention, and schedule a follow-up for a few weeks or months later to see if the issues have been resolved.
  
  
• 6). Solicit support from other parents in the workplace or outside of it. Larger companies may have established groups for new parents to trade ideas, tips and babysitter names, but groups work well in smaller companies as well. Consider setting up lunch meetings with colleagues or attending local support groups to make the transition easier.