In recent years, gender identity has become a topic of much discussion. More people are coming forward as transgender, non-binary, gender neutral, or gender fluid. This has led to the use of multiple pronouns such as she/her, he/his, and they/them, among others. Many members of the LGBTQIA+ community wonder whether they should disclose this on their resume or job application and how.
Weigh the Pros and Cons
Discrimination based on gender is illegal, but that doesn’t mean it never happens. Seeing someone’s pronouns on their resume could lead to unintentional bias. At the same time, by being upfront, you may potentially weed out those employers who have not shifted toward being progressive and embracing diversity and inclusion. Do your research and see if you can learn more about a company’s stance on these types of issues before applying if you are concerned.
Also, expressing your pronouns can avoid awkward conversations where you must correct the interviewer if you are accidentally misgendered. This does not just happen with non-binary individuals, but also those who have a unisex first name, such as Kyle, Carson, Peyton, Jamie, or Jesse.
Once you have considered your options and decided what is best for you and your job search, here are some ways you can incorporate your pronouns if you so choose:
- Include them below your name.
When you create the contact information for the top your resume, add an extra line below your name where you can share your pronouns. This makes it clear how you want to be referred to when communicating.
- Include them after your signature.
When signing your name at the bottom of your cover letter, or in your email signature, include your pronouns of choice. This allows you to communicate them in a more personal manner than putting them at the top of your resume.
- Choose the appropriate box on your job application.
Some employers have updated their job applications to include options for male, female, and X or other. If you do not identify as male or female, choose other. If there is a space for you to add an explanation, include your chosen pronouns. If there is no option for X or other, you may choose to mark both male and female if possible and explain later. You could also choose not to respond (unless it is a required field).
- Add them to your LinkedIn profile.
In some cases, you can use your LinkedIn profile to apply for jobs and also to communicate with recruiters or potential employers. Since there is not a specific place to designate how you identify, you could include your pronouns after your name such as “Jane Smith (they/them/theirs)”.
- Incorporate them into reference letters.
If you are asked to submit reference letters or include them with your job application, make sure that any references refer to you using your correct pronouns. This shows a potential employer how you want to be referred to and demonstrates acceptance from others.
Whether you disclose your pronouns is a matter of personal preference and what you feel most comfortable doing. You have some control over when it comes up in discussion and how to share this information. The team at Grammar Chic can help you create a professional resume that emphasizes your strengths, abilities, and accomplishments regardless of how you identify. Contact us today at (803) 831-7444 or resumewriting@grammarchic.net to get started.
