Getting new documentation to show my identity as Johnna instead of John proved to be much easier than I had expected. The person I spoke to at my college even congratulated me as they forwarded over my new transcript and diploma. I was kinda stuck with the name and gender on my driver's license unless I wanted to get a court order for a gender and/or name change, although I was able to get a new photo with my updated look.
My first job application went directly to my old employer's biggest competitor, and within days I was called in for an interview. It was for an entry-level position in the same department I had been in charge of at my old job.
The problem was I had that while I had the education, I had no resume. Where ever I went to work, I didn't want my knew employer to treat me as a trans person, I wanted them to see me as a woman. So I had no work history or references.
My interviewer, the HR manager, was a guy named David. He was a silver haired man, kind of a 'Silver Fox' type. He was nice, polite and very hot for an older guy, and he knew it. I made my way through the process with flying colors, and we both very casually flirted back and forth. I was pretty confident about my chances.
"I have to say, Johnna, you are a very wonderful candidate for this job," he said as he got to his feet. "Our problem is your lack of a work history or references. Those are usually requirements to get a job here."
"I know, sir, but I promise you will not be disappointed," I said. "Life just got in the way. All I need is a chance to prove myself."
"I want to be very honest with you," he said. "You have been one of the best interviews I have had for this job. But I wish there was more that I could do. It's just that we have a very packed field of applicants. Applicants with work histories and references. If you could come up with something...maybe I could move you to the top of the pile. Otherwise, I would have to say that your chances are very limited."
I knew it was going to go that way, but it certainly stung a bit to hear it out loud. He gave me a polite smile.
My next chance at a job would be at a little rinky dink start up across town with a considerably lower pay scale. I didn't want to go there. I tried to think of a way to change his mind, but there really wasn't much.
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