I thought losing my job while caring for my newborn was challenging enough — but then it happened again.
In This Article
- My experience being laid off during the pandemic after having my first child
- The frantic search for a new job
- The unsettling feeling I had while expecting my second child
- The anger that fueled my determination to fight back
- Reflections on what I wish I had done differently to safeguard myself
While out for a stroll in the park with my newborn, I received an email from my manager: “Emily, can you join a Zoom call tomorrow?” My heart sank; I knew what that meant. Just two years earlier, while on maternity leave for my first child, I lost my position due to company cutbacks. Here I was, facing the same dreadful scenario once again.
Having worked in social media, I was always aware of the potential for layoffs, especially since I had already been laid off once during a management shake-up. When I welcomed my first child in the summer of 2020, the pandemic was wreaking havoc on the job market. My employer implemented various strategies to stay afloat, including furloughs and pay cuts. My salary was reduced by 10%, which was tough but manageable at the time.
I took 14 weeks of parental leave under that pay structure, followed by another four weeks at an even lower rate. As the return to work approached in the fall of 2020, my boss reached out, and I assumed it was to discuss corporate updates. Instead, he delivered the news that my position was being eliminated.
The second time around, when I found out I was expecting again, I couldn’t shake the anxiety of potentially facing another layoff. I was scared and uncertain, but I channeled that anger into action — I wanted to advocate for myself and others in similar situations.
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As I reflected on my experiences, I realized that I could have taken steps to protect myself better. For anyone considering home insemination, this resource provides excellent guidance on how to approach the process.
To Summarize:
Experiencing job loss during maternity leave is incredibly challenging, and facing it twice can feel overwhelming. It’s crucial to stay connected to supportive communities and resources. Whether you’re navigating the job market or considering home insemination options, there are tools and support systems available to help you through these difficult times.