Coming Out To Your Boss

Things can get tricky when you start to mix your personal life with your professional. Follow these quick tips if you desire come out to your boss or others at work:

• First, know that you don't have to come out at work, but should you decide to come out, do so at your own pace.


• Review your companies discrimination policy. Does your companies policy include protections against discrimination based on sexual identity? Should your coming out lead to your dismissal or any potential harassment, you do have rights. Some states protect LGBT people from workplace discrimination regardless of the company's policy (Which states protect LGBT people from work discrimination?).


• After reviewing your rights at the company and in the state, ask your boss if you can speak with him/her privately.


• Ask your boss to keep your discussion confidential. There is no assurance he will, but you should ask him regardless.


• Explain to your boss why you are choosing to come out.


• Explain how much his support will mean to you in the office. The behavior and actions of management greatly influence the employees behavior.


• After you come out, reiterate your desire that your announcement remain confidential, meaning just between him/her and you.


• If you boss expresses any discontent, speak with your human resources representative about the situation just in case the dynamic of your work environment changes.


• If you are coming out to your boss in order to pursue a romantic relationship, know that your coming out is not a guarantee that your boss (if he is gay) will be interested in a personal relationship with you.


• Read these tips on dating your boss when he's gay or when you're not sure if he's gay.