Top 5 tips for finding LGBTQ+ friendly and inclusive organizations

By Marco Steel, Senior Program Manager, Investments and UK LGBT+ Network Co-Chair at WTW

Finding an inclusive organization that ticks all boxes can be difficult sometimes so, I’ve assembled some of the things to always keep an eye out for that I have found through my own journey as well as working within LGBTQ+ and graduate networks at WTW!

1. Company Culture: WTW is a culture carrier, meaning it fosters a dynamic, diverse and inclusive environment that values employees' contributions. Graduates will feel empowered to share ideas, collaborate, and grow professionally in an organization where they can bring their true selves to work. When searching look out for options such as Early Careers networks and LGBTQ+ Inclusion networks as they can be key to engaging with similar and likeminded people.

2. Differentiation from Competitors: WTW stands out by offering a distinct work experience, with values that prioritize employee well-being, growth, and creativity. Graduates will benefit from being part of an organization that leads with purpose, not just profits and so definitely look for a company that stands out to you and aligns with your own values and needs.

3. Strong Career Foundation: As a top company for career starters, WTW provides comprehensive training, mentorship, and development opportunities where Graduates can build a solid foundation and gain valuable skills that will advance their careers. This is key for any job search as having that security of the fact that you can build from the start of your journey, can really give you that confidence and sense of belonging within your workplace.

4. Opportunities for Growth and Development: WTW is committed to nurturing talent and offering career progression opportunities where Graduates can expect to grow and take on new challenges as the company supports their long-term career aspirations. No matter who you are or where you come from, having the opportunity to grow within an organization is really important, so definitely ask questions and research opportunities for growth when searching!

5. Collaborative and Supportive Environment: The team-oriented and supportive culture makes it a great place to start a career. Graduates will thrive in a workplace that values teamwork, open communication, and collaboration, leading to both professional and personal growth. This is probably the most important on this list so ensure you explore review sites and social media channels to get a better understanding of what the organization’s environment is truly like from current colleagues.

Finally, and to sum it all up, when looking for an LGBTQ+ inclusive organization, don’t be afraid to be yourself, ask questions that are important to you or settle for anything less than where you truly feel comfortable!