Being a Responsible Newborn Care Specialist or Postpartum Doula When Working Under Another Professional

Being a Responsible Newborn Care Specialist or Postpartum Doula When Working Under Another Professional

In our industry, professionalism isn’t just about certifications or experience—it’s about how we show up for the families we serve and for the colleagues we collaborate with. As a Newborn Care Specialist (NCS) or Postpartum Doula, there may be times when you’re asked to step into a position temporarily, perhaps filling in while another NCS takes a well-deserved break or covering a postpartum shift for a doula in your network. These opportunities are not only valuable ways to stay engaged with long-term clients but also a reflection of your reputation in this community.

However, with these opportunities come clear responsibilities. When you’re filling in, you are not the lead. That means your role is to support, not to change, correct, or offer unsolicited advice that may conflict with the existing systems.

Let’s discuss what responsible and respectful support entails.

1. Understand Your Role: You’re There to Support, Not to Lead

When you step into a household where another NCS or postpartum doula has already established routines, your job is to follow the care plan they’ve set up with the family. This is not the time to introduce a new feeding method, suggest a different sleep schedule, or tweak routines—even if you would personally do things differently.

Consistency is everything for new parents. They are looking for stability, not conflicting opinions from the professionals they trust.

Protocol Tip: If a parent asks for your opinion or wants to make a change, gently defer by saying, “That’s a great question. Let me check in with [Lead NCS/Doula’s Name] to make sure we stay on the same page.”

2. Build Professional Trust Through Respect

In this industry, word of mouth and personal reputation are everything. When you’re trusted to fill in for someone else, how you handle that job can either open doors or quietly close them.

Colleagues will notice if you're respectful, if you follow their lead, and if you leave things in good order for their return. And guess what? That’s how you get referred again and again.

Professionalism is not about showing how much you know—it’s about showing you can be trusted.

3. Communication is Key

Before starting any fill-in job, get clear instructions. Ask the lead:

• What is the current schedule or care routine?

• What communication do they expect from you during the shift?

• Are there any sensitive family dynamics or preferences that you should be aware of?

During the job, keep your updates neutral, professional, and in alignment with the current care plan. And always let the lead know how things went at the end of your shift—this helps them transition back in seamlessly.

4. When in Doubt, Pause and Ask

There’s no shame in checking in. If a situation arises that feels unfamiliar or different from what you would normally do, ask yourself, “Is this my call to make?” If it isn’t, check in with the lead NCS or doula first.

This shows humility and respect—not hesitation.

5. Why It Matters: Your Reputation is Your Resume

Whether you’re just starting or you're in between long-term clients, filling in is a great way to stay connected to the field. However, the goal should always be to leave a positive impression with both the family and the lead care provider.

Families remember when their experience is seamless. Your colleagues remember when they can count on you. And this level of professionalism will lead to more work opportunities and a stronger presence in your local and national networks.

Final Thoughts: We’re Stronger Together

In the newborn care and postpartum world, we don’t work in silos—we work in a community. And communities thrive on mutual respect, clarity of role, and professional integrity. When you support another NCS or postpartum doula, you are building a bridge, not a comparison.

Remember: There is space for all of us to shine, especially when we lift each other up.

Looking to grow in your NCS or postpartum doula journey? Whether you're just beginning or looking to sharpen your skills in professionalism and team-based care, we cover these principles in our advanced mentorship and training programs through NewbornIQ. Supporting one another well leads to longer careers and stronger networks—and that’s a win for everyone.