Should I Come Out at Work?

What should I do?

Sincerely,Proud in Life but Confused at Work

Dear Proud,It’s tough.

However, you’re not alone in your concerns about being out at work.

you’re gonna wanna do research in advance to answer the question.

Here’s where to start.

This resource is a great starting guide to know if the workplace is accepting or not.

Research on smaller companies that aren’t on the national index is a bit more difficult.

Of course, you’ve got the option to search the employer online for additional data.

One other tip may be to check theirpolitical campaign contributionsfor an indicator of their opinions on national issues.

Don’t rely on this exclusively, but it’s a data point in your decision.

This throw in of research worked in reverse forformer Mozilla CEO Brendan Eich.

you might also ask the local LGBTQ community center or organization.

Bigotry exists regardless of rules and regulations, so keep your eyes and ears open at a job interview.

Listen for remarks or ilook mages in the workplace that are inconsistent with the company’s policy.

HRC saves the day again with aguide on laws protecting you.

Subjects of relationships and personal life work their way into interactions.

Will you lose business when these topics come up?

Do you bring a date?

Do you put a picture of your significant other on your desk or your smartphone?

It’s not relevant.

After all, heterosexual people don’t disclose their orientation during a job interview.

But at the same time, you shouldn’t have to actively hide it.

At the end of the day, it’s up to you.

You may not perform as well on the job if you are hiding something.

Photos byRawpixel, Dave Greenbaum, andOteo.