How should employees approach gender non-binary coworkers? Should we ask what pronouns are preferred, or is it up to the person to denote their pronouns?
- USA 🇺🇸
Lewis Corner, Editorial Director at GAY TIMES GROUP says:
Great question! This is an important one because the use of pronouns is a personal thing and differs between all of us.
Many LGBTQ+ people are rightly sensitive about correct pronouns, whereas others may be more relaxed and not mind if you make a mistake. It’s ok to ask your peer or colleague how they identify themselves and what pronouns they would like you to use to address them. Just be sure to have the conversation in person, and in an informal and friendly capacity.
It’s best to avoid talking about it over email or text, and if you are in a work capacity, a busy meeting is the wrong time to have this conversation! If you approach the conversation in a calm and friendly way, in a more private part of your office, you’ll very likely get a clear response — and an appreciation that you were considerate in your approach.
Many LGBTQ+ people do denote their pronouns to peers and colleagues to avoid any confusion. Personal pronouns will often be included in email signatures or social media accounts, so you could try checking these places if you are unsure.
When in doubt, it’s always better to ask the question in a polite and considerate way than run the risk of using the wrong pronoun or misgendering a colleague.
If you do address someone by the wrong pronoun and they correct you, respectfully apologise.
If you witness a colleague purposefully misgendering or discriminating against a non-binary employee, you should not remain silent. Take the necessary steps to speak to that individual in private about their actions, or if you’re in your workplace report their behaviour to HR or a leader.
Being an ally to people who identify outside of the gender binary means not expecting them to always carry the burden of changing perceptions. Let’s all do our part to instill change for a more accepting and progressive society.
Visit gaytimesgroup.com for more information about connecting with LGBTQ+ audiences around the world.
Check out other articles by Lewis Corner here.
