The transition back to the workplace after having a child is an overwhelming experience for many new mothers. New responsibilities combined with a major shift in routine might come with lots of anxiety, questions, and concerns for a family with a new baby at home. Returning to a supportive work environment can make all the difference. We spoke to Assistant Manager Kaly M., about how her team supported her during her transition back to work at an Enterprise branch after maternity leave.
What has been the most positive part of your experience returning to work?
The most positive part about returning to work has been knowing that I have a great support network, both at home and at work. My team has been friendly, helpful, and welcoming. They have supported me during the transition by providing me with tools and resources whenever I feel stressed or need some extra help.
Additionally, my husband currently watches our daughter during the day, which allows me to go to work full-time.
What was your experience with the phaseback benefit Enterprise provides? How did it help with the transition?
I’m grateful for the phaseback benefit Enterprise offers. Without it, I would have really struggled with breaking the new mom routine I had developed with my baby and going back to work full-time after my maternity leave was over. The phaseback period was beneficial because it allowed me to work a few hours per day, and then go back home and attend to my newborn baby girl.
What were your top concerns when returning to work? How were they addressed?
One of the top concerns I expressed to my Area Manager when returning was getting back into the groove of working in daily rental operations and being successful at work. My other main concern was that I was still breastfeeding during my transition back to work and would need to take time during the busy workday to step away and pump milk for my baby.
My Area Manager and my team at the West Jordan branch allowed me to get back into the swing of things at my own pace. They made sure to have ongoing communication with me, checking in often to make sure that I wasn’t feeling overwhelmed with my transition back to day-to-day operations. My branch manager was also extremely considerate of the fact that I was breastfeeding. We set up a designated time period during which I could step away and pump without feeling any guilt or stress.
What is your approach to work/life balance?
My approach to work/life balance is making sure that I take care of myself first by loving myself and by maintaining my physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. I’ve noticed that if I’m not feeling my best, I have a difficult time with other aspects of my life.
What advice would you give to a new mom about to return to work at a branch?
Take it one day at a time and do your best. Being a new mom is a blessing and a challenge. Adding work into the mix can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be a stressful journey if you can rely on and openly communicate with your support networks. Most importantly, always take the time to love and care for yourself first.