Time off at new job?

Question

I am in a bit of dilema. My wife is 7 1/2 months pregant. I am starting my new job on monday. I am just waiting on the written contract. How would I bring this subject up? when do I? I understand that I will not be able to get a week off, but I really just want 2 days off.

Do I want until after I'm hired then mention this?
Do I add this clause into the contract?

Answer 1

People jump jobs these days all of the time. Your life shouldn't be put on hold. You need to bring up your needs up front. The birth of a baby is something that they should understand...otherwise...you are working for a bad employer.

When you bring up the topic, I'd offer something up like your willingness to answer questions at home a couple times a day. Or that you are willinging to take a laptop home with you and dial in to check your email or something like that.

These days...our home lives and our work lives are intertwined;. We need to give a little to get a little.

Answer 2

You don't say what country you are in. In the US, you probably wouldn't have vacation time available yet after only 6 or 7 weeks on the job, but pretty much anybody would understand you need a couple days off for the baby's arrival. You might have to take it without pay, or they might just give it to you. I'd tell them as soon as possible though.

Answer 3

This should have been mentioned at the time you were interviewing. Having not done that, it should be mentioned as soon as possible after you start.
And, tell me, do you distrust everybody THAT much that you need this in the contract????

Answer 4

No, get everything on paper first. Make no mention of it. Once the contract is finalized, then work it out verbally with your superiors.

Answer 5

I would think that you would have vacation time available in the new year.