As an LGBTQ+ graduate, you have some reservations or questions about finding a graduate job or scheme. From knowing when and how to disclose your sexuality or gender identity to dealing with discrimination, we cover everything you need to know before entering the workforce.
Research has shown that members of the LGBTQIA+ community face more mental health issues than their heterosexual peers. As such, finding an inclusive graduate employer is key. The right employer will make your transition into full-time employment seamless and comfortable, so you can be yourself from day one.
One of the biggest takeaways we want LGBTQ+ graduates to take away from this guide is the importance of recognising your skills. Rather than trying to blend in, make sure you highlight your skills, especially resilience and creativity.
LGBTQ+ Graduate FAQs
We’ve rounded up the most commonly-asked questions LGBTQIA+ community members have about landing their first graduate role.
Do I have to disclose my sexuality or gender identity?
The short answer is no. You’re not obligated to disclose this information if you feel uncomfortable or aren’t ready. That said, keeping a big part of your identity hidden at work could impact your mental health. It stops you from being your full self and can be extremely draining. Disclosing this information will allow you to be completely yourself at work and make you a happier, more productive employee.
At the end of the day, it is 100% your decision. If you aren’t ready, then wait until you feel comfortable and safe to share this information with your colleagues and employer.
How do I disclose my gender identity or sexuality to my employer?
If you’ve decided you want to share your sexuality or gender identity with your new employer, the next question is how.
There are several ways to disclose your sexual orientation to your employer. First, you’ll need to decide when you want to disclose this information. Would you prefer to hint at it on your CV? Perhaps you feel more comfortable bringing it up during the interview? Alternatively, you may want to wait until you start working.
The most important thing to remember is that there’s no right or wrong way to do it, so don’t put too much pressure on yourself.
Here are a few ideas of how you can subtly express your sexual orientation or gender identity:
- Including any work or volunteering roles within the LGBTQ+ community on your CV (volunteering at Pride, being a member of your LGBTQIA+ student society, etc.)
- Inquiring about the LGBTQ+ network at your new place of work (or how to start one)
- Speaking to a trusted colleague or manager and asking them to help you slowly spread the word
- Adding your preferred pronouns to your CV and email signature
- Asking during the interview process if the organisation considers itself an inclusive employer
When should I disclose that I am part of the LGBTQIA+ community to my employer?
When you’re ready. There’s no right or wrong time to do it. However, you may want to ask questions during the interview to understand whether it is an LGBTQIA+-friendly employer.
What do I do if I experience discrimination in the workplace?
Any type of discrimination in the workplace is illegal in the UK. So, if you are being discriminated against in any way, shape, or form, it’s important to speak up.
Discrimination can take on many forms, from unfair treatment to offensive comments to being excluded. Smaller microaggressions and subtle acts of discrimination can be harder to put into words, putting many people off reporting it. However, the sooner you raise your concern, the better.
Start with an informal conversation. If you’re comfortable speaking directly to the people responsible, try that first. If not, speak to a trusted colleague, manager, or HR member. In many cases, people are unaware of their own unconscious bias, so shining a light on it will often get the behaviour to stop.
You should also suggest some ways to improve the culture and create a more inclusive working environment. For example, unconscious bias training, establishing an LGBTQIA+ staff network, and internal resources.
As an LGBTQ+ graduate, you may feel intimidated to speak up and voice your concerns. However, it’s important that you do. An uninclusive or discriminatory workplace can significantly affect your physical and mental well-being.
If the discrimination continues, you should try speaking to Citizens Advice.
How can I find an inclusive employer?
You may be wondering how to find an LGBTQIA+-friendly workplace in the UK. This is a common question amongst LGBTQ+ graduates. Getting a job with an inclusive graduate employer will give you the peace of mind that you can be 100% authentic at your place of work.
Rather than hiding your sexuality or gender identity, an inclusive employer will encourage you to celebrate it. Doing so gives you the confidence to be yourself and relax in your new role.
Here are some tips on how to find inclusive employers.
- Check the company website for their diversity policy
- Look carefully at the website and employer branding materials. Do the photos and profiles represent a diverse range of employees?
- Look at their social media posts to see if they attended local Pride events and if they participate in local LGBTQIA+ community events
- Do they have Stonewall or Proud Employers logos on their resources?
- Is there an LGBTQIA+ network?
- What diversity training do they offer staff?
Another great way to find inclusive graduate employers is to attend networking events and careers fairs, such as WorkPride.
What are the top inclusive graduate employers in the UK?
Specialist job boards and websites are your best bet as an LGBTQ+ graduate looking for an inclusive employer.
Here’s a list of the UK’s top inclusive graduate job boards.
- Aspiring To Include
- Developing A Student
- Jobs4LGBTQplus
- LGBTjobs.co.uk
- Proud Employers
- Vercida.com
Finding A Job As An LGBTQ+ Graduate
You may have some questions or concerns about getting a job as an LGBTQ+ graduate. Understanding how to navigate the workplace, disclose your gender or sexuality, and deal with discrimination is essential. We hope this guide helps you to feel confident and secure as you enter your first graduate role.
Finding an inclusive employer is one of the best ways to feel comfortable as an LGBTQIA+ graduate. This will ease your transition into full-time employment and foster a stronger sense of belonging.
Be sure to check our dedicated Inclusive graduate Jobs Board to find LGBTQIA+-friendly jobs in your area.
Looking for career advice? Our resource hub is packed with up-to-date information on graduate jobs, industry trends, and advice for graduate job seekers. We cover everything from working abroad to the best UK cities for graduate jobs.
You can also catch what’s new on our blog every Wednesday.
Are you a graduate employer?
Browse our services page for information on advertising on our specialist jobs board, creating a company profile, and more.
To see how we can support your business, get in touch or sign up for our free Developing a Student email newsletter with the form below
