-: We have made great strides when it comes to
being a more inclusive society
and respecting all people for who they are.
However, change rarely happens overnight,
and we still have a ways to go.
Communication, education, and love
are the vehicles that will drive us forward
into a more accepting future.
(upbeat instrumental music)
Let's start with the job search.
It is massively important for you to familiarize yourself
with the current laws in your particular state.
That way you will know your rights
as a member of the LGBTQ community.
For instance, in Maryland,
the state in which our company is based,
the Fairness for all Marylanders Act
went into effect in 2014, and it expended the state
anti-discrimination laws to include gender identity.
Researching companies is one of the best things you can do,
and you have to ask yourself,
do you really want to work for a company
that is not fully accepting of who you are?
Your research should seek out companies
with diversity in staff and leadership,
inclusive, non-discrimination policies,
inclusive employment benefits,
public support of the LGBTQ community,
LGBTQ employee group,
and finally, education and training in place.
It's always recommended to read company reviews
and have conversations with past
and current employees if need be.
Resume and interview.
Many people feel adamant that sexual orientation
and gender identity have no bearing
on your ability to do the job.
With that said, disclosing such information
is strictly a personal decision.
Some may want to disclose right away,
others may want to wait
to get to know their colleagues a bit.
Use your preferred name if you are fully comfortable
disclosing your gender identity.
Otherwise, consider using your given name.
Some choose to be more vague
about their organizational experiences.
For instance, saying something like,
"anti-discrimination group," rather than
the true name of the organization.
Or you can just put the acronym of the organization
with no further detail.
But be prepared to feel questions
and elaborate in the interview stage.
Some employee benefit items that might be of relevance
are domestic partner insurance, and PTO.
And finally, however you choose to present the information,
it is still important to be honest.
Being a little vague is not lying,
but lying can hurt your chances of getting the job.
Dress code is the topic of much conversation,
and sometimes, disagreement in the workplace.
In this ever-changing environment,
some companies are quicker to adapt than others.
Most importantly, you should
never feel discriminated against.
If you do feel discriminated against,
please do not be afraid to speak out.
You will want to look for gender neutral dress policies
that celebrate inclusivity and acceptance of all.
While companies do have the right
to decide their own dress guidelines,
they should never be arbitrary
or favor one gender over another.
And the guidelines must be for legitimate business purposes,
such as safety, uniform visibility to the public,
or maintaining a certain image to clients.
Starting work.
Now that you've landed the job,
here are some ideas to help you get acclimated,
stay comfortable, and continue being a positive vehicle
for acceptance and change.
Join or create an employee group
that promotes inclusivity and drives related partnerships.
Communicate to your employer any training
that needs to be implemented or adjusted.
Lean on your outside community for support.
Family, friends, LinkedIn groups,
Facebook groups, et cetera.
At the end of the day, we all hope to find ourselves
in a work environment where we can feel comfortable
in our own skin, and thrive professionally.
Be who you are, love who you are,
and remember to never settle for less
than your idea of career fulfillment.
(gentle instrumental music)