Job hunting and transitioning

[AprilV]

Hey all,

Pretty soon i am going to start a job hunt as female. I am an IT professional and took time off of work to move, transition, etc...and am unemployed.  I am in no rush but wonder if anyone can share some advise as to job hunting as a Trans Woman

At what point during the interview process do you inform them you're Trans? During the initial phases? During the interview? When a job offer is made? I am thinking during the initial contact phase because if they have an issue with LGBT persons i wouldn't want to work for them.

How much should i reveal to a company?

Hugs,

April

[Dena]

Last time I looked for a job, a long time ago, I went by the don't ask don't tell policy and with one exception I was never ask. I was applying at a military contractor and they ask if I ever went by a different name so I had to reply to the question with the truth. A few weeks latter they called me into a big meeting with no warning and I was the subject of conversation. They were going to give me a security clearance and the form came up. I responded to their questions with the truth and there was no problem.

In todays employment market, you may need to tell them at some point so they can check out your references or fill in the void in your work record. You may need to play it by ear and see if you are comfortable telling them and if the time is right. They may start talking about their LGBT work place and you might ask questions at that point that could lead to the conversation.

[Karen5519]

I would let them know right out of the box.  Be totally upfront with them and that should score points for you as they will see you as honest and trustworthy.  It will also explain why there is a gap in your employment during the time that you transitioned. If you are age appropriately dressed and act accordingly during your interview they will see that you are a serious person and that will only add to your credibility.  I would only reveal that you are a transgender woman and not provide any further details.  They are looking for a person who can perform the duties associated with the job opening, should there be one. 

Oftentimes companies which do government work have to comply with federally mandated hiring and employment guidelines and you may be seen as being able to help them receive more of that type work. 

I do not work in the IT sector but I do know that companies that operate in that area tend to be much more inclusive when hiring people who might be seen by some as being out of the mainstream.  Having said that, the company exists to make a profit and if your education, prior experience and work record shows that you will help the entity be more profitable then they will hire you. 

Good Luck!  I'll be pulling for you as you only help prove to the world that we are not unlike everyone else in the workforce.....and many times much better!

[AprilV]

Thank You both for the outstanding replies. Extremely helpful. I found encouragement in your messages.

Sincerely,

[TG CLare]

I recently applied for a job and was granted an interview. I was warmly greeted and went through the reception and office to another office where a gentleman was sitting. The lady with me was nice and complimented me on my clothes (It was an office job) so I dressed the part. We were introduced and the interview began.

She asked most of the questions and he only asked one but looked at me like I was circus clown and it wasn't a good look either.

At the conclusion of the interview I was shown out through a side door so I don't think I'll be hearing from them as I feel the man was the one who gives the nod of approval.

I don't think I'd tell them more than they need to know.

Love,
Clare

[diane 2606]

Admittedly every job I interviewed for as a woman I was post-op, but I never felt obligated to tell any of my potential employers about my past and the subject never came up. Even after employment I never felt compelled to tell anyone. My coworkers were not my best friends, they were people with whom I associated during set periods of time, five days each week.

If you're pretty sure you can pass, go for the gold. You'll be treated much better than you would if they know all your secrets.

[Lillian_b_tv]

I think don't ask don't tell is best.  I'm open to my hr rep that's because we have trans friendly hr that can help. My computer us one if the top to work for as trans.

[suenz01]

Hi April, I employ 16-20 people on a full time basis depending on work flow. When we look to hire people it is always based on their ability and personality. We are an abrasive blasting and industrial painting company and have only ever employed 1 female on the workshop floor as its a hard and dirty career. I have had 1 person who was transgender but did not know and they struggled with their employment. If I had known and they were honest with me I would have been more than willing to offer any help I could. This includes the hard work of a workplace culture. We have a diverse range of personalities and ages 19 years to 66, we treat everyone on their attributes and not personal views. I strongly agree with the others that honesty is the best policy as all companies want this from all their people as well as integrity and mainly the ability to do the job properly. All employment places are different as with the employers or owners. I would assess each opportunity as it presents itself and be ready for any reaction that may come. I would be fascinated and embrace your life choices whilst there is a sliding scale down the most bigoted.
I do wish you well in fronting up and being you.


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[AprilV]

All,

Thank You for the replies. All the opinions are greatly appreciated and has given me much to consider.

[AprilV]

Thank You for taking the time to respond.A big Thanks for being an open minded employer who is more concerned with qualifications than a persons gender and lifestyle. I wish their were more employers like you and hopefully from your example other employers will take notice follow your positive example.

than

Hi April, I employ 16-20 people on a full time basis depending on work flow. When we look to hire people it is always based on their ability and personality. We are an abrasive blasting and industrial painting company and have only ever employed 1 female on the workshop floor as its a hard and dirty career. I have had 1 person who was transgender but did not know and they struggled with their employment. If I had known and they were honest with me I would have been more than willing to offer any help I could. This includes the hard work of a workplace culture. We have a diverse range of personalities and ages 19 years to 66, we treat everyone on their attributes and not personal views. I strongly agree with the others that honesty is the best policy as all companies want this from all their people as well as integrity and mainly the ability to do the job properly. All employment places are different as with the employers or owners. I would assess each opportunity as it presents itself and be ready for any reaction that may come. I would be fascinated and embrace your life choices whilst there is a sliding scale down the most bigoted.
I do wish you well in fronting up and being you.


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[SueNZ]

Thank You for taking the time to respond.A big Thanks for being an open minded employer who is more concerned with qualifications than a persons gender and lifestyle. I wish their were more employers like you and hopefully from your example other employers will take notice follow your positive example.

than

Hi April, for some reason tapatalk did not recognize me.
I also have my own life choices as you may see by my posts 
I missed a bit in my response before. The reason we don't have any females is not by choice but they don't apply due to our industry not being very pleasant.
For me I would love to walk around in my female persona and attire but it just can't be. The risk to the company from unknown reactions is not one I can take.
Thank you also for your kind words.
Cheers
Sue.