Netflix is adopting a new policy for parents entitled to maternity and paternity leaves.
"Today we're introducing an unlimited leave policy for new moms and dads that allows them to take off as much time as they want during the first year after a child's birth or adoption," said the company in a statement published Tuesday via their blog.
Netflix said it will continue to pay employees, who will be taking the time off for their new baby, and encouraged workers "to figure out what's best for them and their family." The employees are also asked to make arrangements with their superiors during their absences and suggests that they can either return to part-time or full-time work, but they can "go back out as needed" during the year.
In the U.S., the current standard on family leave is between 12 weeks to one year. The law, however, does not require parents to be compensated during these times, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
This move by Netflix is a huge perk for its employees, and it tops even Yahoo's maternity and paternity leave policy, which was doubled in length in 2013, according to NBC News.
With the much-needed time afforded to new parents, how can they be able to maximize their family leaves better? Below are some tips:
1. First, discuss your plans with Human Resources, especially when you're availing leave benefits. Go over the checklist from Baby Center, which has tips on what you can bring up with HR.
2. A few weeks before you take the leave, discuss your plans with your superiors and co-workers. Someone needs to cover your work during the time you're away. This way, you can start delegating tasks. If possible, do come up with a checklist to guide you and your co-worker so that all bases are covered.
3. Once at home, acknowledge that the first few week with the baby will be hard, according to Parents. The site also suggests having help for the first few days so as not to exhaust yourself this early.
4. Every now and then, contact work to touch base with what is going on. "It's incredibly stressful to get up to speed after being away for 3-4 months," said Carol Walker, a consultant, via Harvard Business Review. "Spending half an hour to check in and debrief isn't a huge intrusion and can be valuable for everyone involved."
5. Enjoy your time off. As you take care of the baby, take time to explore the neighborhood, indulge in some R & R time with your spouse and boost your social circle.
