How to Come Out as a Transgendered Person at Work
In spite of policies against discrimination in the workplace, transgendered people still walk a tightrope when coming out. Maybe everything will be okay and maybe it won't. You need to be open about your motives and show everyone you're the same person. Follow these steps for a smooth coming-out process at work.
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Instructions
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Check the nondiscrimination policies at your workplace. Make sure they specifically mention transgendered or transsexual employees.
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Find out if there's a support group for gays, lesbians, bisexuals and transsexuals in your company. Prepare to educate them about your needs. It's worth it, though, to get support from other employees.
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Ask the diversity specialist at your workplace, if your company has one, to support you. Get your therapist or counselor to be present at meetings. They won't get emotional when explaining your situation.
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Approach your human resources department. Bring up the nondiscrimination policy and ask about treatment of gays and transsexuals. Get the representative to admit how they should treat you before telling them you're transgendered.
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Meet with your boss at a time when you know you'll have his full attention. Ask the human resources representative, diversity specialist or your therapist to be present. Be respectful when explaining transsexualism to him and listen calmly to any concerns he voices.
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Invite your coworkers to a meeting where you educate them about your status. Have your therapist, your boss, the company diversity specialist or the human resources representative explain what transsexualism is. Then tell them about yourself and answer any of their questions.
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Consider whether you're really happy at your job. It's easier to come out as a transgendered person at a new workplace. Treat your transgendered status like your social security number. Give that information only when you have a firm offer.
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Tips & Warnings
Janis Walworth wrote two books about transgendered people in the work place. Although aimed at employers and coworkers, they include helpful tips on coming out. You'll find both books at Amazon.
