Last question re: intervieing while pregnant?

I got the interview! It's tomorrow at 1:30, so I'm little bit beside myself in excitement. I'm also 8 months pregnant--34 weeks to be exact.





I've done a little research, and I believe that since I volunteer the fact that I'm pregnant (an 8 month belly really can't be hidden), I'm walking in with my head held high knowing that I'm going to be perfect for that job.





I've decided that I'm going to basically say the following (maybe not so rehearsed):





"I'm excited to be working for %26lt;organization%26gt; and I look forward to a long tenure here. I wanted to tell you upfront that I'm due to have a baby via C-Section on Sept. 6. It is my plan to work here until Sept. 6 so that I can document duties and work out the details of my return. I do not plan on taking more than 3-6 weeks of leave, but I am also very flexible. I realize that what you want to know is it I will be a committeed employee, and I assure you that I will be. "





Any advice you can give me? How does that sound okay?

Last question re: intervieing while pregnant?
The most important thing to remember when you are being intreviewed is that the person who is asking questions is an expert (regardless whether he is or he is not, you must assume he is), and that any slight negative attitude that you may display will generate a motive for the interviewer to reject your application considering your pregnancy stuation and how it could affect your job performance now and after the baby is born.





I think the choice of the words you want to use is adequate. However, when you say those words make sure you are saying them with total self confidence and reliability.





The less you say the better as long as you can impress your interviewer that you are reliable, and trustworthy. I am sure a positive attitude will generate such an environement.
Reply:It never hurts to try, it all sounds like it is very well said. I wish you luck and hope you get the job!
Reply:While your condition will be obvious, you will be making a mistake to bring it up.





I say that because. If the person viewws the pregnancy negatively, your words will sound defensive and it will just add to his negative impression. If the person is neutral (or even postive) about your condition, they might wonder why you are bringing it up, and possibly even miffed that you might think they held your pregnancy against you, not giving them credit for thinking you would be able to work around the birth.





If anyone raises a question (even an oblique reference), then you are well prepared with an answer (though I doubt you would be able to work right up tio the day you go in for the C-section). But don't jump the gun and offer your story.
Reply:Good luck! It sounds like you would make a fine employee. The sad fact is that 99% of the employers won't hire someone that is 8 months pregnant and for good reason. This is one of those areas where the law and common sense don't really walk hand in hand. Employers can't discriminate, but at the same time, most employers that are hiring need someone to fill the position immediately. Training someone for a month only to have them leave for 6 weeks is not the most efficient way of doing business. On top of that, many women intend to go back to work, but after having a baby, sometimes they do not come back. And, there is always the chance that, Heaven forbid, you have complications with the delivery which would mean more than 6 weeks off.





I understand your situation and I am really not trying to discourage you. At the same time, the reality is that you are not likely to be the best candidate for the job due to your pregnancy.





I would suggest asking the employer how they would like to handle your pregnancy if they give you the job. They may be willing to hire you after you have the baby. Also, you might offer to allow them to use the month before your delivery as a kind of trial period where you would work for free or a low wage.





These 2 options may not sound appealing, but I am thinking from the employer's perspective. If I have someone willing to work for nothing to prove their worth, I would be more willing to take a chance with your situation.





Again good luck with the interview, and I wish you the best with your baby.
Reply:Congrats on the interview. Legally, the interviewer can't ask you if you have kids...but this will be obvious that you're about to have one. The interview should only be about the job, and your ability to do that job. I bet you're probably worried that they won't hire you because they know you will be out on maternity leave.





I'd make the interview about you, the job, and why you are going to be a great hire/fit for them (know the job description). Once they make you an offer, then you can discuss your maternity leave needs with HR. I wouldn't even mention the method of your delivery. It's not important to the job. Let them know why you love their organization, and you want a long term career with them. Also, don't just say you're a detail person, but describe a behavior that shows that. If you developed a training binder in your last job, mention it, and describe a little of what went into that. I hear "I'm customer focused" or "I'm a people person". Means nothing to me until I hear a behavior from them that supports that.





I'm pulling for you! Good luck.