Transitioning in the Workplace – Growth, Understanding, and Connection 

Living as your authentic self in the workplace empowers and can lead to greater job satisfaction. It fosters genuine connections with colleagues, encourages open communication, and promotes a positive workplace culture. When you feel free to express your true self, you’re more likely to be creative, engaged, and motivated. It can also inspire others to be authentic, creating an environment where diverse perspectives are valued.  

When you feel free to express your true self, you’re more likely to be creative, engaged, and motivated.

My name is Jesse, my pronouns are they/them and I’ve been transitioning (trans masculine) for five years now. I am a spouse to my best friend and parent to a wild, sensitive, and funny 2-year-old. I write this blog based on my own experiences and perspectives. Please keep in mind this is just one trans experience. 

My Workplace Journey 

Six years ago, I was working at a religious-based organization all the while struggling with my gender identity. I knew I would have to resign if I came out to my coworkers and supervisors. Not because I didn’t feel the support of folks I see day-to-day in the office, but because of my personal history with the greater church. As an already out queer individual, it shaped how I interact with the church as a whole. Guarded is putting it lightly… A blog for another time. 

The inner turmoil became so great that I knew I needed to find a different job and a place that was supportive of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Being at ease in my body, at home, and at work, quickly became my only priority. I heard CTRI was hiring a Print Shop and Shipping Coordinator and was told by friends that an out, non-binary, transmasculine (labels… love em’ and hate em’) individual would have no issues fitting in.  

At the initial Facetime meeting with CTRI staff, I disclosed that I am transgender. Without skipping a beat, the staff person said “Ok great. Now we have a few questions…”  referring to what we were there for. It was a nonissue. In all honesty, I was a little disappointed! I built it up so much that I was ready for at least a discussion.  

As I walked into the interview I was (of course) quivering in my brown khakis, a blue blazer I bought from the H&M men’s section, and a confetti white button-up shirt. The khakis hugged all the wrong places and the blazer was big in the shoulders but not big enough to close around my wide hips. Talk about dysphoria… An everyday issue as I try to navigate the binary world I find myself in. Again, a blog for another time.  As I walked in the door, I was greeted and immediately asked what my pronouns were. This was the first time anyone had taken a moment to ask me that question. Off to a good start!  

The interview was terrifying. I did my best to be exactly who I am and to not listen to the inner voice saying I needed to change myself to be liked. The questions ended, and I knew this was where I needed to be firm; I had to make sure this workplace was as good a fit for me as I was for them. My main question… bathrooms… Yes. One thing I really cared about was if they had gender-neutral facilities. They did! Three single stalls. Simply ideal. The interview ended, imposter syndrome was raising its head, and without a doubt, I was convinced they didn’t like me, and I would never see my single-stall workplace dreams again. But as you can tell, I’m still here and still living the single-stall bathroom dream. 

By creating a culture of acceptance—through supportive colleagues, gender-neutral facilities, and respect for identities—we can foster an environment where everyone feels valued.

Transitioning Begins 

A few months after starting, I had my first shot of testosterone and a year later, top surgery. My coworkers were nothing but excited for me. If I couldn’t be my true self at work, I’m not sure where or how I would be today. They gave me the support and affirmation when I needed it the most.  

This doesn’t mean there weren’t misgendering and awkward moments. Of course, there were, and sometimes, still are six years later! We are all human and all make mistakes. It’s important to lead with humility, empathy, and understanding.  

Though my experience has been positive overall, many individuals face discrimination and even job loss. A survey was taken of Two Spirit, Trans, and nonbinary people in Canada in February 2024 on employment experiences. 72% of surveyed participants had experienced workplace discrimination, 49% quit their job due to not feeling accepted in the workplace, 46% experienced unemployment since the beginning of COVID in 2020 and 74% had reported hiding or minimizing aspects of their identity half, most, or all the time when job seeking.  

What is the Transgender Day of Remembrance About? 

Every year on November 20^th, we honour Transgender Day of Remembrance – a time to recognize the lives of transgender individuals we’ve lost to violence and discrimination. It serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by the transgender community, including systemic violence, prejudice, and inequality. On November 20^th, I encourage you to take the time to support local organizations. Visit the PFLAG website for help finding your local organization), advocate for change, and create safe spaces. 

How to Create a Culture of Acceptance 

Transitioning in the workplace is a journey that can come with its challenges, but it can also be an opportunity for growth, understanding, and connection. By creating a culture of acceptance—through supportive colleagues, gender-neutral facilities, and respect for identities—we can foster an environment where everyone feels valued. Both individuals and organizations need to prioritize inclusivity and respect. As more workplaces recognize the importance of these values, they can transform from mere job sites into communities that celebrate diversity. For those navigating their transition, remember that you are not alone; support is available, and a brighter, more inclusive future is possible. 

9 Tips for Allies in the Workplace: 

• Use our pronouns and our preferred name. Don’t be afraid to ask for pronouns and say yours in return. 
• Include your pronouns in your email signature. It’s a small thing, but it can make a big difference to someone. If 2-Spirit, trans, non-binary folx are the only ones with pronouns in their email, we are immediately outing ourselves. It’s important for everyone.  
• If a fellow employee has come out to you, know it is a privilege. They are sharing a part of themselves that not just anyone can know. It’s vulnerable and often scary. Be gentle, and caring, and keep in mind this is their journey to share. Not yours. 
• Be bold and help us correct misgendering. Trust me, it’s exhausting. But a little help goes a long way.  
• If you misgender us, acknowledge it, apologize, and move on. If not in the moment, find us later in the day and bring it up then. Even if you think we didn’t hear… We ALWAYS hear. 
• If there are gendered bathrooms, consider changing the sign to “Gender Neutral”. Bring this up with your supervisor, manager, or HR department. Start the conversation and advocate for those where bathrooms are a big source of anxiety.  
• If you have questions, check yourself. Is it coming from a place of genuine curiosity about the individual? If so, ask them if it’s ok to talk about it. They may say no, and that’s ok! If it’s not, Google it. We are not your only source of information on the topic. The internet is filled with loads of information.  
• Think rainbows are overdone? Think again! I love a good rainbow flag. I immediately feel more at ease. CTRI has a flag hanging in the main entrance and I couldn’t be prouder. 
• We are just like you. Treat us no differently than any other coworker.