After presenting supplemental leave as part of your proposed total length of maternity leave, your manager may inquire, “What is this supplemental leave?”
Reply with something like, “That’s the portion of my maternity leave that I’d like to focus our discussion on.” Then move into your prepared opening lines of negotiations.
Your manager may not ask about supplemental leave specifically but instead challenge you on the total number of weeks you’ve requested: ”I can’t have you gone for 16 weeks!”
In that scenario, put the emphasis on the merits and strength of your Work Coverage plan. Be ready to compromise with the Accessibility During Leave element of your proposed leave. If necessary, point out the portion of leave that you’re ”entitled” to.
Use These Sample Scripts
“It sounds like a long time to be away, yet the main concern regarding my absence is addressed: the work will get done. Let’s go over my Work Coverage plan in more detail so I can address your specific concerns.”
“Would you like me to be in touch with you earlier or more often than I’ve proposed? Let’s modify the Accessibility During Leave section of my proposal as a way to address your concerns.”
“While I am requesting [a few] additional weeks time beyond the 12 weeks allowed by law [assumes you're eligible], the work will continue to be handled in the way I’ve outlined. Plus, I’ll be talking to you more often during the latter part of my leave. May we focus our discussion on your specific areas of concern and how my Work Coverage plan and Accessibility During Leave can address them?”
These sample scripts give you an idea of how you can direct your negotiations. Naturally, your actual opening lines and replies to your manager’s response to your proposal will be tailored to your unique set of circumstances.
Of course, more time off is great, but you’re interested in more paid time off, right? Is that possible? Three conditions foster a favorable outcome. See if you meet them.
The proposal sections referenced here are from Max Maternity Leave Proposal Template & Negotiation Guide. Download your free copy here.
