9781422275252

Words to Understand Coming out: Coming out of the closet, or simply coming out , is a metaphor for LGBT people’s self-disclosure of their sexual orientation or of their gender identity. Discrimination: The unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people or things, especially on the grounds of race, age, or sex. Transgender: Denoting or relating to a person whose senses of personal identity and gender do not correspond with their birth sex. Coming out at work is a personal decision. When you identify as LGBTQ, letting your colleagues and coworkers know may feel like a priority. But you have the right to share your personal information when you are ready, and not before. Be patient. Coming out in the workplace can take time, and you can go slowly by getting to know people and finding those you connect with and can trust. When you have a new job, your skills and talents are what matter most. If you feel comfortable sharing your status as an LGBTQ individual, consider the setting where you want to disclose this information. For example, do you mention in front of a colleague in the break room that you are transgender ? Do you share in a meeting? Knowing when to share the information is as important as whether to share and can help you feel more comfortable in your place of work. Consider Your Motives Motives matter when it comes to coming out at work. If you are newly identified as an LGBTQ individual, you may feel as though it’s important to tell every single person you come in contact with. But before you do, it’s important to ask yourself why you feel the need to

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Coming Out in the Workplace