Did anyone resign after baby was born?

How did you tell your boss? I'm 8 weeks into my leave, have 4 to go. My disability is paid, so I'm officially on unpaid FMLA now. I'm dreading telling my boss that I'm not coming back, first b/c I pretty much knew all along, but didn't tell anyone. Second, I'm a bit nervous about how we are going to manage on 1 income so I thought I should be safe and ask for an extended leave. I know we can cover the bills, but the more I think about it, the more I'm not sure how Peter and I will be able to change our lifestyles. We've both been working and independant for a very long time, so it's going to be hard to cut out a lot and start to live frugally.
Anyway, I know I'm not going back to work, I didn't even look into daycare once I found out the costs so I do have to resign so we're goign to try for a year and see if we can do it.

So, now I'm not sure if I can get away with telling my boss over the phone. I think it would be more professional to do it in person, but I'm nervous about seeing him and everyone else at work.
I'm in eastern queens and would have to take the LIRR in, I work at 34th street, so taht wouldn't be so bad. BUT, Lyla hardly stays with her own father alone, let alone my father or anyone else. And, she nurses frequently, so I don't know how long I can leave her. If I do it over the phone, I guess I'll tell him why I didn't come in. I could bring her in, but that would be even more pressure on me.

Do you think doing it over the phone is really bad?

in situations like this - i ALWAYS do over the phone!!!!

I am chicken that way! But I think it depends on the relationship w. your employer. How long you've been there, how close you are personally, etc. I know it's uncomfortable, but if the working relationship has been a good one, maybe they deserve a face to face resignation.

One of my best lessons ever learned was to 'project ahead'. Whenever I am dreading something, I just think about the 15 minutes after when it's over and the relief I will feel. Good luck!

That's a good point, to think of 'after'!

I've been there for a year and a half, my boss is a worry wart, but not a bad guy. He's also very busy, and I found out from a co worker that he's going to Thailand for a confenrece in a week until the beginning of Sept, which is when I'd go back to work. So I HAVE to tell him this week.

If I were to look for a job in a year or so, I'd want to go back to the agency, but in a different department doign different work. So, I def. need his recommendation. He was very pleased with my work based on 2 reviews that I got in my 1st year.

I think it depends upon your relationship with the firm and with your boss. Were you there a while? Did you enjoy working there?

It also depends upon whether or not you think you might want to work again for that company and/or use them for a reference.

If any of the above is 'yes' or 'maybe', I'd make the trip in and do it in person. The personal touch always goes a long way....

Niha - I just read your reply to Jenny (you posted before I could finish typing! )

Given what you said, I'd make the trip in and speak with him in person. Bring the baby if you can - I'm sure everyone would love to see her!

honestly Niha if you want to go back to the same field then your reputation must be protected. I would go into the office without the baby and handle this very professionally. i would honestly tell him that after looking further into daycare options you simply cannot afford to continue working- daycare would just eat up a lot of your check. i would tell him that you really like your job and you are willing to help him with transition. tell him you would be available via phone to help with any questions over the next few weeks.

i would be nervous too, but you have a right to leave this or any other job so it will be okay.
just leave on very good terms if you want to be welcome back there again.

I agree, if you want to consider going back there in some capacity it is better to leave on good terms. Like the other ladies have said I would be professional about it and actually go tell him in person. I think it would go a long way

Good luck!!!

I agree w/ the ladies, Niha!! You should definitely see him in person. Can Peter or your sister travel into the city w/ you to help w/ Lyla?

I'm doing the same thing you are. My 'employers' (I'm technically self-employed), have a feeling I may not be back. Steve and I are taking Sean in to 'meet' everyone on Sept. 2nd. I'm going to sit down w/ the owners and tell them I'm not coming back.

Since I have to work, I am planning/hoping to find something on LI, I just can't work in the city anymore - I hate that **** commute!!

Best of luck w/ being a SAHM. I'm jealous!!

Niha, I 'm not sure what type of company you work for, and if you are on FMLA leave but read any material very carefully.

By law, (and most companies include it in their policy) the company can charge you for the employer portion of the medical benefits you received while out on leave if you do not return. If you return and give notice, they cannot.

That being said, if you can manage it, the best thing to do is to tell them in person. Most industries end up being very small worlds, so if you plan on going back in your field (especially after being out of it) it's best to maintain good feelings.

Good luck .

Thanks everyone. I'm going to have to think about who to leave Lyla with for a couple of hours. I'll call my boss this week to schedule time.

Kaycee, my health benefits are under my husband's employer, so no problem with that.