LibraryScenariosWhen workplace pronoun adoption feels more performative than genuine
Scenario

When workplace pronoun adoption feels more performative than genuine

I started using they/them pronouns at work six months ago and some colleagues make an obvious effort while others pretend they didn't hear the conversation, and both responses feel performative.

Juana
Online
The coach is replying

More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

Others' visible effort to accommodate your identity can feel as alienating as their resistance, highlighting the gap between compliance and true acceptance.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Converting — gaining a new identity?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.