In a recent job interview, the author was asked a question that sparked a moment of self-reflection and honesty. The question, “If we brought you on board, how could we keep you?” prompted the author to confront their past experiences of being told to stay closeted in order to avoid judgment in the workplace. This led to a moment of radical honesty that ultimately changed the course of the interview and the author’s perspective on self-advocacy.
The author had applied for their dream job, attracted by the company’s values, mission, and innovative approach. Throughout the interview process, they had envisioned a workplace where they could be accepted for who they truly are. However, when faced with the question about what the company needed to do to keep them, the author was initially at a loss for words.
Reflecting on past experiences where they had been asked to compromise their values and identity in order to fit in at work, the author realized the toll that self-abandonment had taken on their well-being. They had followed advice from HR experts and supervisors to stay closeted and prioritize the mission above themselves, leading to a sense of disconnection from their true self.
In a moment of vulnerability and courage, the author decided to be radically honest in their response to the interview question. They expressed their need to be accepted as a queer woman without having to hide or engage in flirtatious power plays with male donors. This moment of truth-telling was met with overwhelming support and applause from the hiring team, who commended the author for their bravery.
The experience of speaking their truth in the interview room was transformative for the author. They realized the power of advocating for themselves and embracing radical honesty, even in the face of potential rejection. By being true to themselves, the author not only felt a sense of liberation but also empowered others to make informed decisions moving forward.
In conclusion, the author’s experience serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-advocacy and authenticity in the workplace. By embracing radical honesty and speaking their truth, the author was able to break free from the constraints of self-abandonment and pave the way for a more fulfilling and authentic professional journey. This story highlights the transformative power of vulnerability and courage in shaping our careers and our lives.
