Coming out in work

[Peacebone]

I'm hoping to come out after passing probation, but now sure how difficult it will be in this job...

I'm a support worker for disabled adults (domiciliary - I go to people's homes). The thing I'm kind of worried about isn't the client, but the client's families. I.E. Some don't want men doing care work for their kids/sibling/partner ect

I kind of wonder if I will experience transphobia from families and if it'll affect the work I do.  I really like what I do so far and I know my employer are LGBT friendly and good on mental health.

What are people's coming out in work experiences?

[ImagineKate]

Are you in the USA? What state? Policies and laws vary by state and country.

My "coming out" at work is rather simple. I first approached HR and asked about policy. I then told my team and my manager. Next is my full time date (at work) when I do the complete switchover, which should be spring or summer.

Thankfully we have strong antidiscrimination policy and I work in NYC which is trans friendly.

If your employer is LGBT friendly that is one hurdle you've overcome.

I assume you're FTM? Do they have any "butch" lesbians (I hate using that term) working there? What is their experience? I know it's not one and the same but it could give you a ballpark.

Finally, do you know anyone else who has transitioned on the job? I asked my employers and they said there were two. They would not reveal for privacy reasons who they were of course but it is good to know they've at least been there before. But in many cases if you're the trailblazer it should go well. At least in many parts of the US, companies are afraid of lawsuits and bad publicity. They also want a comfortable work environment for all employees. In the end their productivity is what should matter.

So my suggestion is to go talk to your HR and see what they say. Do it after your probation if you feel scared.

[Peacebone]

I am FtM and I'm in the UK.

I know one openly gay woman works there, but she's not butch in appearance (dunno how she identified).