Susan's Place Transgender Resources

Community Conversation => Transitioning => Coming out of the closet => Topic started by: mikaelmackison on July 13, 2013, 10:15:14 PM

Title: When to tell a new employer?
Post by: mikaelmackison on July 13, 2013, 10:15:14 PM
I read "A Guide to Coming Out at the Workplace" in the Wiki.  That left me wondering, though...

If you're already out & living your preferred gender full time, including legal name change; when is it appropriate to explain to a new (or potential) employer why the gender marker doesn't match your presentation?  Is that brought up during the interview, after being hired or simply hope they don't notice?
Title: Re: When to tell a new employer?
Post by: Soren on July 13, 2013, 10:39:12 PM
I believe I've read that presentation is protected as freedom of expression in the (1st?) amendment in the US. And it's illegal for them to ask you your sex. Or exact age. Or if you have kids.
Title: Re: When to tell a new employer?
Post by: Misato on July 13, 2013, 10:47:51 PM
Right now I'm thinking as close to an offer as ya can, preferably post.  I hold it's tough these days to hide the name/marker change paper trail so I figure they'll figure it out and, from our side, there's the little matter of what the benefits exclude.  That can either save you or, as I found out, cost you a small mint.
Title: Re: When to tell a new employer?
Post by: dpadgett628 on July 14, 2013, 01:12:28 AM
Personally, I'd wait until they say something about it.

I mean, a gay man doesn't have to tell his boss when he gets hired for a job that he is gay. It's just a part of who he is and has nothing to do with his ability to preform the task at hand. So why should a transman? (this applies to the ladies as well)

Though since there is the legal/medical side to all of this and legal is involved in the workplace, it would probably be best to be explained if it does come up.
Title: Re: When to tell a new employer?
Post by: LordKAT on July 14, 2013, 01:14:57 PM
Age discrimination is legal if you are under 18 or over 40. I know of no law against asking your gender as for some jobs it matters and until recently, it mattered for id verification.
Title: Re: When to tell a new employer?
Post by: mikaelmackison on July 15, 2013, 12:26:29 PM
I did some digging on anti discrimination laws in my area.  None exist (for gender identity) at a state level but my city has had them in effect since 1999. 

At this point I'm thinking I'll address it post-offer unless asked during the interview process.

Thanks for the replies.   :)