Oooof. I know this is a very sensitive subject.
A follower recently asked me during my Monday Stories’ Ask AuntyHR™ Anything when she should reveal that she’s pregnant during the interview process.
I told her the safest approach is “Don’t ask. Don’t tell.” (Note: In Malaysia, unfortunately, asking this question is not against the law.)
Because I’ve seen many employers where, once they know you’re pregnant, there is always a risk that conscious or unconscious bias may influence the hiring decision.
That said, don’t lose hope.
I’ve also personally seen hiring managers who had absolutely no issue hiring pregnant candidates because they judged them based on one thing – Can she do the job?
In fact, one of my followers shared her experience with me right after I posted the story:
“Aunty, I’ve experienced this twice before.
My first pregnancy was discovered during my probation because I didn’t even know I was pregnant. When I told my boss, she simply said, “It’s okay.” Nothing changed.
During my second pregnancy, I told the interviewer upfront that I was pregnant. He responded, “So what? You’re pregnant. You can still work, right?”
And I got the job.”
Now, those are employers you want to work for.
If the moment someone finds out you’re pregnant they no longer want to hire you, perhaps that tells you more about the company than it does about you! Think about it.
Happy weekend, everybody!
May you find employers who see your potential… before they see your circumstances. 🤞
xoxoxo, AuntyHR
P.S. Fun Fact: The very first candidate I ever placed as a staffing consultant was a pregnant woman on a fixed-term contract in 2004. She had stayed with the same company for more than 10 years. Remember, stay hopeful ♥️
