COULD I BE RESPECTED FOR BEING MYSELF?

Hi, my name is Michael. I’m 55 years old and I have been working for Vitesco Technologies/Continental for 22 years as a development engineer. I love my job, it is a huge part of my life and it is important for me to do my job with my whole personality, with head and heart.

This is the first time I am writing this down. And I hope to encourage others with my story. 

One day at work I felt that even though I was physically there an important part of myself was missing. I left this part of me at home in fear of losing something: my colleagues’ respect, the feeling of fitting in - and most important, my sense of belonging at work with my team.

I had it all, but it felt like obtaining it by fraud. Could I be respected for being myself? Would anything change if I had the courage to show my real personality? Small acts of trying to express myself like wearing black nail polish lead to comments and obliquely looks. I felt very alone.

When I found out that there was the Pride @ Vitesco Technologies community I noticed that I was not the only different one. And that made me find the courage I needed to come out at work. Knowing that our employer supports and values diversity gave me the courage and power to do this:

I go to work wearing nail polish and beautiful skirts or dresses. I am not in disguise anymore, wearing what a typical heterosexual man would wear.

This has had huge effects. Now, I can fully focus on my job and I know that my colleagues are aware with whom they are working. The greatest base for trust. Despite of all my fears, I am still a part of a more diverse and enhanced team but now without doubting it. Besides, I feel balanced and relaxed. My fears and discomfort disappeared the moment I noticed that being myself is no burden for anyone.

I found a second team to be a part of: the Pride @ Vitesco Technologies community. I am very proud about making this huge step. It was the greatest decision and I am really happy about it.

If you liked Michael's story, have a look at our next employee story:

Last year, our colleague Geoffrey decided to do a cross-functional move within the company. He had the opportunity to learn new skills and apply his knowledge to a different field. Read his full story here!

Last year, our colleague Geoffrey decided to do a cross-functional move within the company. He had the opportunity to learn new skills and apply his knowledge to a different field. Read his story here!