Boss doesn't want me seeing clients when obviously pg

[BayeauxT]

This was something my boss said to me last year when I told her I was pg... that she didn't want me to see clients when I was obviously pg, because they would think I wouldn't be around for them afterwards, so we wouldn't get the work (very client-focused business).

I did think it was an odd comment at the time, especially as she knows I will be back at work 6 weeks after the birth, but I didn't say anything. It didn't turn into an issue then because I miscarried, but now I am pg again and wondering what I should do if she says that again?

Load of rubbish. Chance to show clients how well you work as a team and can maintain continuity with different staff. I worked in consultancy as lead on big projects and no-one was bothered in the slightest. Just need to make sure they know you'll hand everything over in a smooth professional manner.

No, she can't say that. It's sex discrimination!

I would kick up a fuss (oh, and if it's your first, I wouldn't shout toooo loudly about being back in 6 weeks as part of that fuss. 90% of women I've known with that plan decide to stay off at least a bit longer)

When I read the title I assumed that a) your boss was a man and b) you worked in a lapdancing club.

When I clicked through and found that neither of these were the case I was rather at your boss' attitude. It's simply not acceptable for her to limit your career oppurtunities like this.

had to smile when i read the 6 week thing, really, don't say that too often.... you won't believe how unwilling you'll be to leave your teeny baby... 6 weeks goes far too quick

your boss sounds ridiculous btw

No, it's not my first child, but unfortunately I don't think I can afford to take much time off beyond 6 weeks for this one.

Lol at lapdancing! TBH, thinking about it, I don't actually MIND not seeing clients, as it involves quite a bit of travelling / long days (as we are in the sticks) - which will be a hassle once I am huuuuge. But I just wondered if she was out of order to say that. I think I will just point out to her how it could be construed if I was someone who was particularly bothered by it, and also that I think people are more open-minded than she gives them credit for.

Thanks for your comments though!

I have a client who didn't send me work for 4 months after I said I was PG with DC2. I assumed he was being chivalrous, not wanting to stress out someone who was pregnant, or he thought women shouldn't work after marriage (he's past retirement age). It turns out there was no work to give me until I was 7 months PG, and then he sent it anyway.

To use your words, yes he was more open minded than I gave him credit for.