If you're preparing to step away from work to welcome a new addition to your family, you’ll want to leave things in good order.
That includes your email communication. A well-crafted maternity leave out of office message is more than just a courtesy. It's actually a powerful tool for you to protect your space during this pivotal time in your life.
A great out of office message sets boundaries, supports smooth transition plans, and lets clients and colleagues know exactly what to expect during your absence.
Whether you’re planning to go fully offline or stay somewhat connected, your out-of-office message can reflect both your professionalism and your personality.
In this blog post we’ll walk you through how to write the best maternity leave OOO message; with tips, examples, and templates to fit every kind of workplace.
Why a Thoughtful Maternity Leave Out of Office Message Matters
Leaving an automated email response may seem simple, but when you’re going on maternity leave, it deserves special attention. Here’s why:
- It communicates your maternity leave schedule clearly.
- It sets boundaries about communication during your absence.
- It helps colleagues and clients get the help they need from the right people.
- It supports your transition plan and showcases your professionalism.
- It’s an opportunity to show warmth, personality, and human connection—if you choose.
What to Include in Your Maternity Leave Out of Office Message
Not sure what to say in your maternity leave auto-reply? Here’s a breakdown of all the essential elements you should include:
1. Your Maternity Leave Dates
Be specific. Include the exact date your leave begins and when you expect to return. If your return date is flexible, say so clearly. This helps colleagues and clients manage expectations and avoid unnecessary follow-up questions. (Speaking of questions, here are some questions to ask before going on parental leave!)
Examples:
- “Thank you for your email. I’m currently on maternity leave and plan to return on August 1, 2025.”
- “I’ll be out of the office on maternity leave starting May 15, 2025, and anticipate returning around September 3, 2025.”
- “Please note: My return date is tentative and may shift depending on my family’s needs.”
2. Alternate Contacts
Point your email senders in the right direction by listing one or more alternate contacts. This ensures continuity and prevents confusion while you're away.
What to include:
- Name
- Role or area of expertise
- Contact information (email, phone, etc.)
- Scope of responsibility
Examples:
- “For client support, please contact John Ramirez at john.ramirez@company.com.”
- “For marketing inquiries, email Sandra Lee at sandra.lee@company.com.”
- “If your message is urgent, you can reach out to our team coordinator, Alex Moore, at 555-123-4567.”
3. Communication Boundaries
Be clear about how (or if) you’ll be checking email while on leave. Clear boundaries reduce pressure on you and clarify expectations for others.
Examples:
- “I will not be checking email during my maternity leave.”
- “I’ll be completely offline until I return.”
- “If your message is still relevant after [return date], feel free to resend it then.”
4. Personal Touch (Optional but Encouraged)
Adding a bit of personality can make your maternity leave OOO message more memorable and relatable.
Ideas:
- A quick personal note: “I’m excited to be welcoming a new baby and thankful for this time to bond.”
- Humor or a metaphor: “Trading spreadsheets for swaddles until September!”
- A humanizing stat: “Fun fact: Paid maternity leave improves infant health outcomes. I’m proud to be taking this important time.”
Examples:
- “Currently learning how to hold a baby and a burrito at the same time. Wish me luck!”
- “I’ll be back soon, hopefully with fewer spit-ups and more sleep!”
Examples of Maternity Leave Out of Office Messages
Standard Professional Example
Thank you for your message. I am currently on maternity leave and will return on August 1, 2025.
I will not be monitoring email during this time.
For urgent matters, please contact Jane Yu at jane.yu@company.com.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
– [Your Name]
Friendly and Light-Hearted Example
I’m currently on maternity leave, embracing life with a newborn (and lots of coffee).
I’ll return to work on September 3, 2025, and won’t be checking email in the meantime.
For help, please contact my amazing teammate Chris at chris@company.com.
Thanks for your support during this special time!
– [Your Name]
Flexible Return Date Example
I’m on maternity leave starting May 15, 2025, and plan to return sometime in early October.
I won’t be reviewing emails during this time, so please reach out again after October if your message still needs attention.
For immediate support, contact my colleague Sam at sam@company.com.
Thanks for your understanding!
– [Your Name]
Tailoring Your Maternity Leave Message to Your Workplace Culture
Your tone should reflect your company culture, industry norms, and role. Here’s how to tailor your message:
For Corporate or Formal Roles
Use a clear, concise tone with minimal embellishments.
Best for: Finance, law, enterprise, consulting.
Example:
I’m on maternity leave and will return on [Date].
I won’t be checking email during this time.
Please contact [Colleague Name] at [email] for assistance.
– [Your Name]
For Creative, Startup, or Mission-Driven Companies
You have room to be playful or heartfelt—just don’t skip the key details.
Best for: Tech startups, nonprofits, editorial, marketing.
Example:
Currently off on parental leave, navigating diaper changes instead of deadlines.
I’ll be back on [Date], not checking email in the meantime.
For anything urgent, reach out to [Name] at [email].
For Client-Facing Roles
Balance professionalism with warmth. Clients want to know they’re still taken care of.
I’m currently on maternity leave and will return on [Date].
While I’m away, [Colleague Name] will be your point of contact at [email].
I look forward to reconnecting soon!
– [Your Name]
Final Tips for Crafting Your Maternity Leave Out of Office Message
- Use bullet points and bolded info to highlight key details. See what we did here?
- Avoid oversharing personal or medical information.
- Consider removing work email from your phone to support full disconnection.
- Double-check all contact info and dates.
- Keep it professional but don’t be afraid to be you.
Conclusion: Your Maternity Leave OOO Message Can Be Thoughtful and Clear
Your maternity leave out of office message doesn’t have to be generic.
With a little thought and clarity, you can set boundaries, ease transitions, and leave a professional impression—all while celebrating a major life milestone.
Whether you're aiming for warm and witty or polished and precise, the perfect maternity leave message helps everyone feel supported.