When is the best time to tell co-workers that you are gay?
21 Answers
Last Updated: 02/15/2020 at 3:08am
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Tanyia Hughes, Adv Dip Psy
Psychotherapist
I have been through a lot in life too, which helps me to be able to empathize with situations, thoughts and feelings that we have. Sometimes, it's not easy just being human.
Top Rated Answers
Anonymous
January 27th, 2015 12:30am
I don't think its important to tell a co-worker, but if it is, it should be when they're really listening.
Whenever you feel comfortable in telling them! It is your right to express yourself, so whenever you think the relief of showing it openly would surpass than the possible uneasiness of opening up, that's the right time. If you feel uncomfortable, you can wait a bit until you get to know them better and you're closer to one another. You can even choose to tell it first to one or more colleagues that you trust the most, and then tell the others, so you'll be sure to have someone supportive by your side.
No one ever has to tell their co workers that theyre straight, so why tell them that youre gay? I dont think that it has to be some huge announcement or unveiling but if something comes up like talking about the opposite sex maybe you can casually slide in that youre not into that, even make a small joke about it if you want. Sexuality shouldnt be some serious, anxiety-ridden secret, even though thats how Ive always seen it. Now what Ive started to do is just let it come out naturally, the same way straight people naturally bring up their crushes or partners etc. when it comes out casually and with ease, its so much less stressful!
Informing your co-workers about your sexuality is not necessary but if you really want to, it might be a good idea to do it the way you really are. if you are an extrovert and love the theatrics, well..how about a rainbow cake or just throw a party and announce it!! take it to the next level! but if you prefer toned down and quite stuff, slip it into a conversation or tell the ones who are closest. Just do the thing that really suits who you are! for you are telling the something that is a part of you :)
Whenever you feel comfortable telling them this and whenever the time seems appropriate to do so. Just tell them in your own time, there is never a best time.
Pick a time that is good for you. Remember this is not about them, coming out is about you. Maybe take them for a coffee and tell them then. If that makes you uncomfortable doing it over text can also work. It is very important to keep yourself safe. If coming out to a specific person could possibly cause you harm, make sure you have people you know and trust with you to step in. You also need to remember that maybe they're not having a great day, so it would be a good idea to take that into consideration,
Anonymous
June 11th, 2018 1:36pm
When you feel comfortable. There really is no best time to tell anyone. Whenever you feel it's the right time, then go for it.
Whenever it's probably not a big deal to them if they're talking about partners just casually slip in by talking about a partner/ex of their own and they'll get the hint
When you're comfortable with telling them, and at no other time. You are under no pressure to tell anyone your sexual orientation, so make sure you find a time when you think it is right and you are happy to tell them, and that will be a good time to tell them (maybe not when they're busy, though, just to make it a little easier)
Anonymous
October 17th, 2016 1:49am
Whenever you feel comfortable with them. don't feel pressured to tell them right away if you are unsure.
Anonymous
July 25th, 2016 2:58pm
Whenever you are ready to be out in the open with everyone. Coming is hard but remember their are other who have done before you so you can too!
The best time to tell your co-workers that you are gay is when you are most comfortable. There really is no pressure to tell anyone besides who you deem appropriate.
Anonymous
April 18th, 2016 8:57pm
I feel like, you shouldn't have to tell your coworkers you are gay. You know what I mean, People dont come to me at work and say they are straight. Your sexual identity is your personal business.
Only come out when you are comfortable and you truly trust that they will accept you. Even when you think they are understanding, they might not be. Be prepared for any situation, but always accept who you are.
I don't think it's really necessary to tell people unless you feel they have a right to know. I personally have only told close friends about my sexuality. (I'm going to assume we're talking co-workers you're friendly with) With me, it usually comes out as a series of jokes and I just wait for someone to ask if I actually am gay. That, or just casual comments such as commenting on how good someone looks. For example, for some reason straight guys don't normally comment on how good other guys look, so that'll probably be a red flag for your co-workers if you're a guy. If you're a girl, I just stick to the jokes.
Why would you. You just work with them. They don't need to know about your personal life. It's not their business
When youre ready and comfortable, and are sure there are no risks, and only you can tell when that is
Anonymous
April 26th, 2015 4:37am
On a one-on-one time. Before any event that might make things uncomfortable for either or both parties.
Whenever you feel most comfortable. Telling people you are gay is hard but it all depends on how comfortable you are with them. It's entirely up to you.
Anonymous
March 7th, 2015 7:10pm
It's hard to say when the best time is to come out to your co-workers. I think in many situations, if not most, it is unnecessary to tell your co-workers that you're gay. It has nothing to do with work and shouldn't matter at all!
When you are sure that they would be accepting. Find out by bringing up a gay celebrity or marriage legalization and see how they react. Then a gathering outside of work might be better than during work, but it all depends on if you feel good about the situation.
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