Becoming a parent is a beautiful, challenging, and rewarding chapter in your life, but it can also be a period of self-discovery. It's a time when you may reassess your goals, values, and dreams – both personally and professionally.
If, as a new or expecting parent, you find that the priorities and passions that once fueled your work life have evolved, you may find yourself thinking about a career change.
This can (but does not have to be) a daunting process, filled with uncertainties and questions, especially for international parents.
Career coach Sarah Mestiri will shed some light on how to navigate a career change as an international parent in Germany.
Sarah is a Career Strategist on a mission to empower women to unlock their full potential. With over five years of experience as a coach, she balances a day job in the AI field, a side hustle, and parenting two young children. Sarah specializes in helping women who feel stuck in their careers advocate for themselves, break free from cycles of self-doubt, and take proactive steps toward creating the futures they desire. Through her guidance, they can achieve greater professional growth and satisfaction. She often shares tips and tricks on her LinkedIn account.
While Sarah specializes in working with women expats in STEM, including mothers, this article is also relevant for fathers with questions and worries as their parental leave ends.
In your experience as a career coach, what can be some of the reasons that new parents pursue a career change?
I believe every major life transition—whether moving countries, a change in personal status (like marriage or divorce), or becoming a parent—prompts reflection on what truly matters.
For new parents, this often brings a fresh perspective on their career path. They may find that their current role no longer aligns with their values or the priorities they now hold, fueling a desire for a career change.
A career change is a big transition, and new parents often struggle with confidence in the professional setting. They may feel like they don’t have the skills or the knowledge required. How do you guide them to feel more confident?
I've seen many mothers I support after a career break, especially when it's been extended, struggle with confidence. Even without a career change, returning to the professional world can feel overwhelming. (Get Sarah’s tips for returning to work after parental leave here.)
For new parents pursuing a career shift, it’s even more challenging.
I’d start by guiding them to revisit the highlights of their past professional experiences. This simple exercise often creates a significant mindset shift as they reconnect with their achievements. Parenthood can sometimes make those past successes feel like they're buried in an archive, so taking the time to unearth them can help them see their strengths again.
We also address mindset blocks, especially around confidence and perceived gaps in experience. Often, these doubts are rooted in beliefs formed over time, sometimes influenced by cultural expectations.
When they’re ready and committed, we move into the career exploration phase, making sure they have the right support systems—like time management strategies and a positive environment. Together, these steps build a solid foundation for their confidence and set them up for a successful career transition.
What role does parental leave play in a career change, and how can it be leveraged?
Parental leave offers a unique break from work that, after the initial baby-focused months, can create space to reassess priorities and make lifestyle adjustments that better integrate this new phase of life. It becomes a valuable opportunity to reflect on how your career fits into your life vision and goals, making it the perfect time to realign your path with what truly matters to you.
Parental leave can also be a time for activities that support a career transition, such as volunteering, joining professional communities, or learning new skills. These experiences can provide fresh perspectives, expand your network, and build confidence as you prepare for a career shift.
However, this period can also come with societal pressures. Parents motivated to return to work sooner may face judgments of being less attentive, while those who prefer a longer break might feel pressure to re-enter the workforce. These expectations can add complexity, which makes it even more important to use this time to focus on what feels right for you and your family.
How can new parents manage feelings of guilt or anxiety about pursuing a career change?
First, explore these feelings with curiosity. Many new parents feel guilty about focusing on their own career goals, worrying that it might detract from their family responsibilities. Start by examining the source of this guilt—does it stem from personal beliefs or external pressures?
When I recently considered a career change, I also felt anxious. What helped was writing down my feelings and identifying specific action steps. For example, if the anxiety came from financial concerns, I’d take a step to discuss this with my partner. Or if guilt stemmed from a belief that I always have to ‘work hard’ to be successful, I’d challenge that belief and explore other ways to achieve my goals without burning out.
Second, find a trusted person who believes in you—someone who supports your potential and encourages your goals. Talking to someone who doubts your plans can deepen self-doubt, while the right person can help you feel more grounded and confident.
Lastly, make time each week to rest, reset, and do things you enjoy outside of career planning. Taking breaks for activities you love and spending time with your loved ones helps you recharge, keeps stress in check, and builds resilience, supporting you throughout the transition.
As an international parent in Germany, language and local qualifications may be an additional hurdle to a career change. What is your recommendation to overcome these barriers?
I recommend first assessing whether German language skills or additional qualifications are truly essential for the roles you’re interested in. Research is key—explore if your target positions require these, or if there are international companies in Germany where English is the working language, even in fields like marketing or sales.
If you find that German language skills or local qualifications are necessary, create a realistic learning plan and start applying for jobs as soon as you meet the main job requirements, rather than waiting for full language mastery. During interviews, share your commitment to learning German, which demonstrates adaptability and dedication.
Additionally, use this time to build your network. Connect with professionals in your field, join relevant communities, and practice presenting yourself as the professional you aspire to be. Networking can enhance your opportunities and support your career transition in valuable ways.
Where can new parents find family friendly and/or expat friendly jobs?
There are a couple of platforms that focus on family friendly job offers, namely Superheldin and Familienfreundliche Jobs although it should be noted that they mostly feature jobs that require German language skills.
You can also get valuable insights through informational interviews. Reach out to people who have worked or currently work at companies you’re interested in, and ask about the work culture, flexibility, and family-friendly policies.
Additionally, use keywords like 'family-friendly' or 'English-speaking' on popular job platforms. Many companies also mention flexible hours or remote options in job descriptions, which can be helpful for new parents or expats looking for a supportive work environment.
How can parents evaluate a potential employer’s family-friendliness during the interview process?
Here are 5 tips to establish if an organization is likely to be family friendly:
Research the Company’s Values and Policies Start by exploring the company’s website. Look at their stated values and any mention of work-life balance, flexibility, or employee well-being. Companies that prioritize family-friendliness often include these topics in their core values or employee benefits section. If they highlight flexible work policies or support for family commitments, it’s a promising sign that they take these values seriously.
Ask About Work-Life Balance Policies During the interview, politely ask about the company’s approach to work-life balance. For example, you might ask, “How does the company support employees in balancing work with family commitments?” or “Could you share how flexible work arrangements, like remote options or flexible hours, are implemented here?” These questions can give you a sense of how open the company is to accommodating family needs.
Observe the Interview Environment Pay attention to the environment during the interview. Look for visible signs that the company values work-life balance, such as employees leaving at reasonable hours. In virtual interviews, listen to how interviewers talk about their work schedules—mentions of flexibility, work-life balance, or time off can signal the company’s values. It can also be helpful to ask the hiring manager or a team member to describe “a typical day in their life at work,” as this may reveal how family-friendly their routines are.
Connect with Current or Former Employees If possible, reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn to ask about the company’s family-friendliness. These informational interviews provide a more candid look into the company culture and may reveal insights that formal interviews might not.
Evaluate the Interviewers’ Responses Pay close attention to how interviewers respond to questions about flexibility or family support. Positive responses often include details about specific programs or personal experiences with flexibility. In contrast, vague or evasive answers could indicate a lack of robust family-friendly policies.
How can parents balance their job search with family responsibilities?
To balance a job search with family life, parents can start by setting monthly and weekly goals to break down big tasks into manageable actions and reviewing their progress weekly.
Additionally, I recommend using time-blocking, dedicating specific times of day to job tasks - like during a child’s nap - which helps parents focus without constant interruptions. There is also task batching, like setting one time to network and another to apply for jobs, which keeps them efficient.
Lastly, setting boundaries around job search activities, practicing self-care, and leaning on support systems can prevent burnout and help maintain balance between family time and job hunting.
Anything else you would like to share?
Embrace the journey with an open and curious mindset.
Exploring career change options can lead to surprising discoveries, and many of my clients have 'aha' moments when they realize they have more possibilities than they initially thought.
Give yourself permission to explore and see where your skills and passions can lead.
Thanks Sarah!
