Is there a better way?
My advice to you in these situations is exactly as you’d expect it to be, you’re allowed to prioritise your own mental health in these moments. If that means excusing yourself, then so be it.
But actually rather write about my advice to you as the person struggling, I feel a rant coming on about how rubbish it is that there isn’t some kind of widely known announcement etiquette in the workplace? It’s just that this topic comes up sooooo often, we’ve all got stories. With 1 in 6 people struggling with fertility, it’s not a small group who are impacted. Chances are, every workplace pregnancy announcement will be triggering at least 1 person. Don’t check my workings…just assume my estimate is correct.
I’m not saying announcements need to be solemn affairs but surely it’s obvious not to blindside people. What’s wrong with sending an email that people can process in their own time and way? “I wanted to share some happy news—[Team Member] is expecting a baby later this year. Please join me in congratulating them when you get a chance.” This way there isn’t an expectation to react and celebrate in the same way, at the same time.
Is this how your employer/manager handles announcements or have you had triggering experiences? HR and People Manager readers, is this something that has come up and do you think you can change best practice in your workplace? I’m a corporate speaker so if you think it would be helpful for me to come and rant at your workplace for a bit…I can do that 👍.
Goal Setting When Everything Feels Hard
Reminder…I have a masterclass coming up next week! If you’re having a tough time on your fertility journey or struggling through grief, setting career goals can feel disingenuous. Even if you know you’re not where you want to be career-wise, it can be difficult to focus your attention away from the challenging life events you have going on outside of work. Difficult but not impossible, I can help you set goals that are sensitive to your situation. Don’t forget to sign up for my masterclass Career Plus Fertility: Goal Setting When Everything Feels Hard on 20th Jan, 15:30 – 16:15 to set some career goals for 2025. Register here to secure your spot. Not available? Register anyway to receive the replay. Know someone who would find the session helpful? Forward them this email, everyone is welcome!
Career Coach With a Fertility Lens – How to work with me
I help people balance their careers with their fertility journeys. If you would like support to manage these 2 difficult things when they collide, book a free discovery call with me to learn about my Career Plus Fertility 1:1 Coaching Program
