What if there are coworkers who are uncomfortable working with a trans or bi individual?
Diversity training is an important component of helping co-workers attain comfort in working with diverse identities. In addition, co-workers should be given contact information of persons whom they can contact to discuss this discomfort and obtain guidance on how to overcome it. Sometimes, people simply need someone to whom they may express their discomfort in order for it to dissipate. You can arrange for an HR manager and an EAP contact to be ready to provide such guidance, and include their information on documentation so that co-workers can contact them. Increasing diversity in the workforce and customer base unquestionably creates discomfort for some based on race, ethnicity, religion and sexuality. It is important that companies develop a comprehensive strategy to address this discomfort in order to continue being competitive in an increasingly diverse world.
