I design each programme according to each client’s individual needs and circumstances, but this sample will give you an idea of how maternity coaching might work.
1 to 2 months before maternity leave
Formal meeting in office
We will discuss what working arrangements are needed during absence. This will include ensuring handover and suitable cover, positioning the maternity leave with clients and external contacts, agreeing how much contact is desired with employer or clients, specifying how much leave is planned, and discussing how the coachee can prepare for the next phase of her life.
Shortly after the baby is born
Telephone call
This is just to touch base and agree when the coachee would like to be contacted again (usually around 3 months later).
3 months after birth
Informal home visit, or meeting at mutually convenient place
We will talk about how the coachee is finding being a mother and managing with her new baby. We will also have a general discussion about and advise on any relevant issues, any concerns about interaction with the office, any change in thoughts about length of leave, thoughts about the timing of return to work, the coachee’s role etc.
2 to 3 months before return to work
More formal meeting at home or in office
We will discuss: plans to return to work (or not) and timing, how the coachee is feeling about working again, thoughts on her role and responsibilities, flexible working, job or role change if relevant, childcare options, building up confidence and self-esteem if necessary and making arrangements for handover of work back from colleagues/maternity cover.
1 month after return
Formal meeting in office
We will review how the transition back to work is going, how the coachee is managing her dual role as mother and professional, any new working arrangements, and setting up a mechanism for regular discussions with her line manager. We’ll also discuss any specific challenges/problems such as time management, planning and prioritising, motivational issues, drawing boundaries and setting expectations, concerns about others’ perception of the coachee’s commitment, and any development areas or training needs she may have.
2 to 3 months after return
Formal meeting in office
The focus will be on a continued review of how work is going, how the coachee is managing her dual role as mother and professional, the success of any new working arrangements and any specific development areas or training needs. If the coachee is thinking about resignation, we’ll discuss the issue, her options, other career paths within the organisation etc.
Early advice and guidance
I can also offer the coachee confidential advice and guidance before she announces her pregnancy to the firm, including how to prepare for the conversation with her manager, who to inform and how to manage her pregnancy at work. This is useful because it gives the coachee another person to talk to in the early stages of pregnancy, in addition to her HR Manager.
Between-session support
My coaching programme also includes telephone and email support between sessions.
Please contact me to start co-designing your own coaching programme.
Vanessa Kingsmill Coaching 