Job Search

[Eileen Novack]

I was just laid off from my company after nine years. I had transitioned at this company four years ago and they were great. Now I face the prospect of looking for employment for the first time as Eileen. I'm sure I'm not the only one in this situation. Anyone have any suggestions? Pitfalls?

Eileen

[Joanna Wagner]

Looking for work is always a stressful time for everyone, trans or not. It's also something you haven't had to do in a long time. See if there's an employment assistance organization near you and get hooked up with a job coach. They can help you prepare a good resume, write cover letters and hone your interview skills. It's also nice to have someone to bounce ideas off of. You might ask yourself if you're happy in your current profession or if you're ready to try something different. I was out of work for 5 years due to disability. When I was ready to go back to work I really didn't want to go back to financial services. I made the move to non-profits and social service providers and I've never been happier in my work life. I guess that's an example of thinking outside the box!

Like you, I transitioned on my first post disability job. A year later (it was a contract job) I was out looking for work in my new profession. I just went into interviews confidant in my abilities. I thought of myself as a professional woman, not a transgender woman. I think that made me more confident in interviews. My being TS has never been an issue in my present job and I doubt it ever will be.

So go out there with confidence. You're selling your skills, not your gender ID. Work on highlighting your problem solving skills and all the good things you did for your last employer! You can do this thing! Best of Luck, Joanna.

[SA_Austin]

Be truthful about your past with any prospective employer. They will discover it regardless, and being open is the best policy.

Otherwise follow a professional job search. Don't be disappointed with rejection, just keep on searching.

Good luck. Though this is not the best time to perform a job search, be persistent and may you find your dream job where you can be your best and be compensated for it.