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I did a fair bit of research for this article to help provide career advice to lgbtq+ people in USA.
Building a career is a big part of life. It’s how we earn money, grow as people, and often, how we spend a good chunk of our time. But if you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community, finding the right career path—or just feeling safe and accepted at work—can come with extra challenges.
I’ve seen how hard it can be for someone to feel confident walking into an interview when they’re not sure how their identity will be received. I’ve also seen people thrive in workplaces that genuinely respect and support them. That’s why I wanted to write this article—to share advice, encouragement, and a few hard truths, all in one place.
Be Proud, But Also Be Smart
The truth is, while many workplaces in the U.S. are becoming more inclusive, not all are. So my advice is to balance pride with smart decision-making.
If you’re comfortable and safe to be open about your identity, go for it. Authenticity can be powerful, and it often helps build better connections at work. But if you feel like your safety or peace of mind is at risk, it’s also okay to be private. You don’t owe anyone personal details unless you want to share.
Every person is different. There’s no right or wrong way to be yourself professionally. What matters is that you feel okay.
Research Companies Before You Apply
Not every workplace is created equal. Some companies talk about “diversity” in public but don’t really live it behind the scenes.
Before applying, take some time to do a bit of digging:
- Check their website: Look for signs of LGBTQ+ inclusion—things like non-discrimination policies, LGBTQ+ employee groups, or public support for Pride.
- Read employee reviews: Sites like Glassdoor or Indeed can give insight into what the culture is really like.
- Look at their leadership and language: Do they use inclusive language? Do they have people of different backgrounds in leadership positions?
If you’re interviewing, don’t be afraid to ask about diversity and inclusion directly. Something simple like, “What is your company doing to support LGBTQ+ employees?” can tell you a lot about their values.
Know Your Rights as an LGBTQ+ Employee
Knowing your LGBTQ+ rights is important—because even though we’ve come a long way, discrimination still happens.
Thanks to a 2020 U.S. Supreme Court ruling, it’s now illegal for employers to fire or discriminate against someone just for being LGBTQ+. This protection falls under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, which covers workplace discrimination based on sex—and that includes gender identity and sexual orientation.
That means:
- You can’t be fired just for being gay, bi, or trans.
- You have the right to report discrimination or harassment at work.
- If something feels wrong, you can speak with your HR department or file a complaint with the EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission).
Knowing your rights won’t always stop discrimination, but it can give you the confidence to stand up for yourself—or help someone else who’s struggling.
Find LGBTQ+ Mentors and Allies
One of the most helpful things in my own career has been finding people who get it—mentors, coworkers, and friends who support and understand me.
If you can, connect with LGBTQ+ professionals in your industry. You might find them through LinkedIn, local events, online communities, or LGBTQ+ professional networks like:
- Out & Equal
- National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC)
- Lesbians Who Tech
- StartOut (for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs)
These networks can open doors to jobs, partnerships, and advice you might not get anywhere else.
Keep Building Your Confidence and Skills
Sometimes the biggest barrier isn’t outside—it’s inside. I’ve met many LGBTQ+ folks who felt they weren’t “good enough” for certain roles, or who held themselves back because of past negative experiences.
If that sounds familiar, I want you to know something: you belong in any room your skills and effort can take you.
To help build confidence:
- Keep learning. Take online courses or attend workshops in your field.
- Track your wins—big or small—so you can remind yourself of your growth.
- Practice talking about your work and your strengths. Interviews are easier when you’ve already rehearsed how to talk about your achievements.
Dealing with Discrimination or Toxic Workplaces
Sadly, some workplaces just aren’t supportive. If you face harassment, exclusion, or any kind of mistreatment:
- Document everything. Write down dates, details, and names.
- Speak up if you can. Talk to HR or a manager you trust.
- Know when it’s time to leave. No job is worth your mental health. If it feels unsafe or constantly stressful, it’s okay to move on.
And remember—if someone treats you poorly because of who you are, it says more about them than it does about you.
Your Identity Is a Strength, Not a Weakness
This is the part I wish more people heard: your identity is not a liability. It’s a strength.
Being LGBTQ+ often means learning resilience, empathy, and how to stand out in a world that still leans toward sameness. Those are powerful skills in the workplace—especially in roles that involve leadership, creativity, communication, or innovation.
In many industries now, being “different” isn’t just accepted—it’s needed. Companies want fresh perspectives, real stories, and people who bring their full selves to the table.
Finding your way in the working world isn’t always easy, especially when you’re dealing with identity on top of everything else. But it’s also full of opportunity. You have every right to build a career you love, in a place where you feel valued and safe.
Take your time. Choose environments that respect you. Keep learning, growing, and reaching out to people who lift you up.
And if no one has said it yet today—you’re doing great. Keep going.
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