Transitioning At Work: A Checklist For Supportive Companies.pdf

# Checklist for Transitioning in the Workplace

## Advance Preparation:

1. Connect with ERG: Share your intent to transition with your local or regional Employee Resource Group (ERG) for support and guidance.

2. Inform HR: Disclose your plan to transition to HR, providing materials if needed. Build a supportive relationship with HR staff.

3. Notify Your Boss: Have an open conversation with your boss about transitioning, ideally in a one-on-one meeting. Include allies from HR or the ERG if necessary.

4. Involve Management: Ensure that your management team understands the transition plan and educates themselves on relevant resources, policies, and books/online materials.

## Plan Your Transition:

1. Consult Experts: Engage a local transgender expert (from an LGBT center or community group) to guide the process. Involve others as required (e.g., IT, Security).

2. Set Timelines: Establish a timeline for transition, including announcement dates and your actual transition date.

3. Address Common Issues: Discuss and plan solutions for usual concerns like restrooms, name changes, pronouns, etc.

4. Involve Behind-the-Scenes Staff: Keep everyone informed and involved in the planning process to ensure a smooth transition.

## The Announcement Day:

1. Department Meeting: Hold a meeting (in-person or teleconference) with your entire work group. Make it clear that you are transitioning and will be referred to as [new name] and using new pronouns.

2. Manager's Role: The manager should emphasize your value as an employee, management support for the transition, and explain company policy and recommendations.

## Post-Announcement Actions:

1. General Education (Optional): Consider providing educational resources to colleagues if desired, with input from the transitioning employee.

2. Bank Account Updates: Arrange with HR and your bank to ensure payroll checks can be deposited in your existing account with an updated signature if needed.

## Transition Day:

1. Update Identification: Issue a new company ID badge, name tag, business cards, and update any organizational charts or databases.

2. Computer Logins: Change computer logins, email accounts, and IDs as necessary.

3. Restroom Access: Communicate your preferred restroom use (usually corresponding to the gender being presented) and address any objections by reminding people of your rights.

## Additional Resources:

- Transsexual Workers, An Employer's Guide by Janis Walworth
- Transgender Workplace Diversity by Jullian T. Weiss
- The Complete Guide to Transgender in the Workplace by Vanessa Sheridan
- Various online resources from organizations like transequality.org, lambdalegal.org, and HR Council (hrc.org)