Confidence: The Secret to a Successful Return from Maternity Leave

When someone returns to work after having a baby, they’re not the same person who left, and that’s a good thing. But it can also knock their confidence.

Here are 5 proven ways to help returning employees rebuild their sense of self-assurance:

1. Embrace Their Strengths

Encourage them to revisit what they’re good at. Help them see what’s still there, and what’s grown.

2. Break Goals into Small Wins

Start with manageable tasks. Success builds on success, even if it’s a tiny tick off the to-do list.

3. Model Positive Self-Talk

Supportive conversations shape internal narratives. If you believe in them, they’ll start believing it too.

4. Encourage New Experiences

Whether it’s a new project or just presenting in a meeting again, trying something new helps restore a sense of capability.

5. Invest in Growth

Give access to coaching, learning opportunities, and mentoring. They don’t need to find their way back alone.

Confidence breeds confidence.

When you feel equipped and confident supporting returners, they’ll feel it — and reflect it back.

👉 Download the Essential Maternity Return Tracker to assess your current support and join my mailing list for more ideas like this.