Preferred name on job applications

[perfectisolation]

Hey everyone, I need your input on this. I'm applying for jobs and I've come across an app that asks for my "preferred name" after I put down my legal one. I wanna go by my male name but I think if I put that on the app they wouldn't bother calling me in for an interview. The folks in chat suggested a male but androgynous name like J.T. or something but I don't go by any names like that. Any advice?

[Jamie-o]

Well, there are a couple of questions to ask yourself.

• How badly do you need the job?  If the answer is, "badly", I would say don't put anything down, then mention your preferred name after you've had a chance to make a good impression.


• If you're not desperate for a job - Do you want to work for a company that discriminates against trans people?


• How important is it to you to be addressed by your male name? 


• And, do you have the fortitude to go through with making the transition at a later date, if you decide to take the safer route for now?

[perfectisolation]

Thanks, Jamie-o
I think I'll go interview with my legal name, see if I can keep the job, then come out to them when I know I got the job for sure. It'll be so awkward though, cause I look like a guy and I don't know how else to look anymore. I just... can't go back..