Resources for LGBTQIA+ job seekers

For LGBTQIA+ job seekers, the path to finding a fulfilling career can be uniquely challenging. From facing potential discrimination to navigating workplace cultures that may be anything but inclusive, the entire process can feel isolating.

Concerns about the potential for bias in hiring— like the fear of being passed over for opportunities because of your gender identity or sexual orientation— can create additional concerns that other applicants may not need to consider in their job search.

In light of these challenges, there are many resources and networks dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals in the workforce.

Empower yourself by understanding your rights

As an LGBTQIA+ employee or job applicant, it’s crucial to understand your rights so you can advocate for yourself if necessary.

In 2020, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity is prohibited. This decision means that employers cannot fire, refuse to hire, or discriminate against you simply because of your orientation or gender identity.

It's also important to note that while federal protections cover many areas, some states and localities may offer additional or more comprehensive protections. Familiarize yourself with any additional laws that apply to your specific location.

If you experience discrimination, harassment, or unequal treatment based on your identity, understanding your rights allows you to take action, such as filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or seeking legal counsel. 

Tips for finding inclusive companies to work for

When evaluating whether a company has an inclusive environment, it's essential to look beyond the job description and consider how the company demonstrates its commitment to inclusion. A company's actions and policies can give you important insights into whether they foster an environment where you can thrive.

Here are a few key things to look for: 

Non-discrimination policies. Some companies go beyond basic legal requirements by establishing specific policies to protect employees, such as gender-neutral bathrooms, dress codes that respect gender identity, and guidelines for using preferred names and pronouns.

Diversity and inclusion initiatives. Research whether the company actively promotes diversity through recruitment, training, and community outreach programs. A commitment to inclusive hiring practices signals that the company values diversity across all identities.

Benefits for LGBT employees. Review the company’s benefits packages for LGBT-friendly options, such as health coverage for same-sex partners, transgender-inclusive healthcare, and parental leave policies that are inclusive of all family structures.

Visible support. Look for signs that the company actively supports the LGBT community, like celebrating Pride month, participating in LGBT events, or showing visible support for LGBT rights. Social media and company blogs are great places to gauge how they publicly engage with the community.

Reviews from current employees. Websites like Glassdoor and Indeed can provide insight into the workplace culture. Look for employee reviews that mention inclusivity, as this can provide a candid view of what it’s like to work at the company as an LGBT individual.

What’s next? 4 Steps for your job search

Once you’ve learned your rights as an LGBTQIA+ individual and explored how to evaluate an employer’s inclusivity, the next steps in your job search should focus on narrowing down opportunities that align with both your professional goals and your values regarding diversity and inclusion.

These steps will help you strategically navigate your job search while ensuring you find a workplace where you can thrive.

1. Refining your resume and cover letter. Now that you’ve identified inclusive employers, you may want to tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight not only your professional qualifications but also how your unique perspective and experiences can add value to the company. If you feel comfortable, you can mention involvement in LGBTQIA+ advocacy or participation in diversity initiatives. It’s also important to showcase soft skills such as adaptability, empathy, and communication, which are often valued in inclusive work environments. We offer a range of resume templates that can be edited to show these sections clearly.

2. Prepare for interviews with inclusion in mind. During interviews, pay close attention to the company culture and how they address inclusivity. You can ask questions about their diversity and inclusion policies, employee support programs, and how they ensure an inclusive work environment for all employees. The way interviewers respond can tell you a lot about how they truly approach LGBTQIA+ inclusion. If the topic of your identity comes up, it’s important to be prepared to assess whether the environment feels welcoming and supportive, as this will have a direct impact on your work experience.

3. Evaluate job offers and negotiation. Once you start receiving job offers, take time to evaluate them carefully. Beyond salary and benefits, consider the company’s commitment to inclusivity. Look at their written policies, talk to potential colleagues if possible, and assess whether the work environment will allow you to be your true self. If the offer is solid but you have concerns about inclusivity, consider asking for specific accommodations, such as gender-neutral facilities or an adjustment to healthcare benefits.

4. Continued advocacy for yourself and others. Even after landing a job, continue to advocate for yourself and your needs. Look for opportunities to get involved in workplace diversity and inclusion programs or employee resource groups that can provide support and create a community of allies. Advocate for further inclusion initiatives if you see room for improvement.

Additional resources

Whether you’re already well into your career or just starting your job search, we have aimed to compile as many resources as possible to empower you on your journey.

Job boards

• Black Remote She. A job board and community focused on remote work opportunities for Black women, including LGBTQIA+ women, promoting career flexibility and inclusivity.
• TransWork. A workforce development initiative that connects transgender job seekers with inclusive employers, providing resources and support for career advancement.
• Pink Jobs. A job board dedicated to helping LGBTQIA+ individuals find inclusive employment opportunities across various industries.
• Campus Pride. A job board tailored to LGBTQIA+ students and recent graduates, with listings from inclusive employers committed to supporting young LGBTQIA+ professionals.
• Diversity Working - LGBTQIA+ Channel. Part of DiversityWorking.com, this channel offers LGBTQIA+ inclusive job postings and resources for finding diverse workplaces.
• LGBTQ+ Career Network. A networking platform that connects LGBTQIA+ job seekers with inclusive employers and provides resources for career growth.
• Diversify Tech Job Board. A job board that connects underrepresented groups in tech—including LGBTQIA+ individuals—with inclusive employers. Diversify Tech features job listings in software engineering, data science, design, and other tech-related fields.
• Ingersoll Gender Center Job Board. Ingersoll Gender Center’s job board lists opportunities for transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse job seekers. It focuses on connecting individuals with employers that prioritize inclusivity and support for gender-diverse staff.
• Queer Outdoors. Queer Outdoors is a community and directory for LGBTQIA+ individuals interested in outdoor recreation. It features events, activities, and resources to help connect queer people who share a love for nature and adventure.
• LGBT Job Board. A job board featuring opportunities from LGBTQIA+ friendly employers, helping individuals find jobs in welcoming workplaces across a range of industries.
• LGBTQIA+ Bar Association Job Board. This job board, hosted by the National LGBTQIA+ Bar Association, lists employment opportunities in law and legal-related fields for LGBTQIA+ professionals, with a focus on positions in inclusive workplaces.
• LGBT Campus Job Board. A job board that serves LGBTQIA+ students and staff in higher education, offering listings for academic and administrative positions in inclusive college and university environments.
• LGBT Funders Job Board. Hosted by Funders for LGBTQ Issues, this board provides listings for positions within LGBTQ-focused non-profits, advocacy organizations, and philanthropic groups, supporting professionals looking to work in social justice and community-focused roles.
• LGBTQIA+ Community Centers Careers. This platform lists job opportunities at LGBTQIA+ community centers across the country.
• GenderJobs. GenderJobs is a job board dedicated to connecting transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals with inclusive employers.

Advocacy and legal support

• National Center for Lesbian Rights. NCLR works to combat workplace discrimination against LGBTQIA+ individuals, providing legal advocacy and resources to address unfair treatment and promote equality in employment.
• National Center for Transgender Equality. NCTE advocates for transgender rights across the U.S. and offers resources on health, legal rights, and policies that impact the transgender community.
• Transgender Law Center. The Transgender Law Center provides legal support and advocacy for transgender rights, covering issues like healthcare, employment, and social justice.
• Pride at Work. Pride at Work is an LGBTQIA+ labor organization affiliated with the AFL-CIO, supporting LGBTQIA+ workers' rights and promoting inclusivity in labor unions.
  ACLU – LGBT Rights and Liberties. Provides resources and advocacy for the protection of LGBTQIA+ civil liberties and basic rights across the U.S.
• GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD). Offers legal advocacy and representation for LGBTQIA+ individuals facing discrimination, focusing on civil rights and equality.
• National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR). Provides legal advocacy and policy work for the advancement of LGBTQIA+ civil and human rights.
• Legal Aid at Work – Gender Equity and LGBT Rights. Focuses on legal resources and representation for gender equity and LGBTQIA+ rights in the workplace.
• Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Enforces federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination, including protections for LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Professional networks & mentorship

• GLIFAA - Resources. GLIFAA (Gays and Lesbians in Foreign Affairs Agencies) offers resources for LGBTQIA+ professionals working in foreign affairs. The page includes information on support, advocacy, and equality within government and international organizations.
• Out for Undergrad. Out for Undergrad helps high-achieving LGBTQIA+ undergraduates reach their full potential in their careers through professional conferences, networking, and mentorship.
• Out Professionals. Out Professionals offers networking events, career resources, and community support for LGBTQIA+ professionals across various industries.
• APA – CLGBTC Mentoring Program. The American Psychological Association’s CLGBTC Mentoring Program offers support for LGBTQIA+ graduate students and early career professionals in psychology. It connects them with mentors to help them navigate academic, career, and personal challenges in the field of psychology.
• StartOut Mentorship Program. StartOut provides a mentorship program for LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs, offering guidance and support from experienced business leaders to help foster success in launching and growing LGBTQIA+-owned businesses.
• LGBT Tech – Paths Mentorship Program. LGBT Tech’s mentorship program connects LGBTQIA+ individuals in the tech industry with experienced professionals to provide career guidance, skills development, and support in navigating the tech sector.
• Out to Innovate Mentoring. Out to Innovate offers mentoring opportunities for LGBTQIA+ students and professionals in STEM fields, providing career advice, networking opportunities, and support from experienced mentors to advance in science, technology, engineering, and math careers.
• Career Accelerator LGBT+ Mentorship. Career Accelerator offers a platform for LGBT+ individuals seeking career development and mentorship, connecting them with industry professionals for personalized advice, skills-building, and growth opportunities.
• OutBio Mentoring. OutBio provides a mentorship program specifically for LGBTQIA+ professionals in the life sciences, offering guidance from established leaders to foster career growth and inclusion in the biotech, pharmaceutical, and research industries.
• LGBT Great Mentoring. LGBT Great offers mentorship opportunities aimed at fostering inclusion, personal growth, and career advancement for LGBTQIA+ professionals in financial services, providing networking and guidance from industry leaders.
• LGBTConnect. LGBTConnect is a networking site for LGBTQIA+ individuals, providing professional resources, job listings, and a supportive community for career development and networking.
• Gay Pink Spots. Gay Pink Spots hosts a calendar of LGBTQIA+ business networking events, providing opportunities for LGBTQIA+ professionals and allies to connect, collaborate, and grow their networks.
• GSBA Networking. GSBA hosts a mix of virtual and in-person networking events for LGBTQIA+ and allied business and community leaders to make meaningful business and social connections.

Scholarships and support for students

• GLSEN. GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network) is focused on ensuring safe and inclusive education for LGBTQIA+ students. It offers resources for educators, students, and advocates on creating inclusive school environments.
• Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Scholarships Search Tool. This tool helps LGBTQIA+ students and allies find scholarships, fellowships, and grants tailored to support their educational pursuits.
• Fastweb – LGBTQIA+ Community Scholarships & Internships. Lists scholarships and internships specifically for LGBTQIA+ students, offering financial aid and professional development opportunities to support their academic and career goals.
• Pride Foundation – Scholarship Opportunities. The Pride Foundation offers a range of scholarships for LGBTQIA+ students and allies, providing financial support to individuals pursuing higher education. These scholarships are designed to promote academic success and community involvement, with a focus on empowering LGBTQIA+ students to thrive in their educational and career pursuits.
• Point Foundation. Point Foundation is a scholarship organization that supports LGBTQIA+ students with financial assistance, mentorship, and leadership training.

Workplace equality & inclusion education resources

• Out & Equal Workplace Advocates. Out & Equal is dedicated to achieving workplace equality for LGBTQIA+ individuals through training, resources, and support for both employers and employees.
• GLAAD. A media advocacy organization that works to promote LGBTQIA+ representation and offers resources on LGBTQIA+ visibility, inclusion, and industry best practices.
• McKinsey & Company – How the LGBTQIA+ Community Fares in the Workplace. This McKinsey report examines the challenges and opportunities for LGBTQIA+ employees in the workplace, highlighting data on diversity, inclusion, and employee experiences, as well as offering insights on improving workplace equality for LGBTQIA+ individuals.
• CNBC – Remote Work Can Be More Equitable and Inclusive to LGBTQIA+ Employees. This article explores how remote work has the potential to be more inclusive and equitable for LGBTQIA+ employees, offering flexibility and reducing potential discrimination faced in traditional office environments.
• Pink News – More Than 70% of LGBT People Have Experienced Mental Health Issues Because of Work. This Pink News article discusses the high rates of mental health challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals in the workplace, often due to discrimination, harassment, or lack of support.
• Mental Health America – LGBTQIA+ Communities and Mental Health. Mental Health America provides resources and information about the mental health disparities faced by LGBTQIA+ communities, offering insight into the unique challenges these individuals experience and how mental health support can be improved.
• Pink News – Pride Month Rainbow-Washing and LGBT Support at Work. This article critiques the phenomenon of "rainbow-washing" during Pride Month, where companies make superficial gestures of support for LGBTQIA+ rights without implementing meaningful change, particularly in the workplace.
• Forbes – Survey. More Than 1 in 3 LGBTQIA+ Youth Experience Discrimination at Work. This Forbes survey highlights the discrimination faced by LGBTQIA+ youth in the workplace, emphasizing the challenges young LGBTQIA+ workers face and the need for improved workplace protections.
• USA Today – Transgender Transition and Returning to Work Post-COVID. USA Today explores the experiences of transgender individuals returning to work after transitioning, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the challenges they face in terms of workplace acceptance and support.
• BBC Worklife – The Risks of Coming Out at Work. This BBC article examines the risks and challenges of coming out in the workplace, including the fear of discrimination, potential loss of job opportunities, and the impact on mental health, as well as strategies for creating safer, more inclusive work environments.

Trans specific

• Transgender Law Center. This organization works on behalf of transgender people to fight for justice and equality through legal services, community organizing, and policy advocacy, tackling issues like discrimination and violence against transgender individuals.
• HRC – Coming Out in the Workplace as Transgender. The HRC provides resources and strategies for transgender individuals navigating the challenges of coming out in the workplace, offering guidance on how to address potential barriers and create a supportive environment for gender identity expression at work.

Resources by career field

Arts

• American Library Association – Rainbow Round Table (RRT). The Rainbow Round Table (RRT) of the American Library Association (ALA) promotes LGBTQIA+ literature, resources, and advocacy within libraries. It provides support for library professionals and offers programs, awards, and resources to advance LGBTQIA+ inclusion and representation in libraries.
• BTFA Collective. The BTFA (Black Trans Femmes in the Arts) Collective is an organization focused on empowering and supporting Black transgender femmes in the arts. It works to provide resources, opportunities, and community for Black trans femmes in creative fields.
• GALeca – Gay and Lesbian Entertainment Critics Association. GALeca is an association of LGBTQIA+ entertainment critics and journalists, focused on advocating for fair representation of LGBTQIA+ individuals in film and television. It organizes the annual Dorian Awards to honor achievements in LGBTQIA+ media and entertainment.
• Lambda Literary. Lambda Literary is an organization dedicated to promoting LGBTQIA+ writers and their works. It offers programs, awards, and publishing resources to support LGBTQIA+ authors and ensure that their voices are heard in the literary world.
• PrideBands. PrideBands is an organization dedicated to celebrating and supporting LGBTQIA+ musicians and performers. It focuses on providing a platform for LGBTQIA+ individuals in the music industry, fostering community, and creating opportunities for musicians to connect, perform, and thrive in an inclusive environment.
• The Queer Creative Podcast. A podcast exploring the stories and journeys of LGBTQIA+ creatives, featuring interviews and discussions on creativity, community, and career challenges in the arts.
• BTFA Collective. The Black Trans Femmes in the Arts Collective provides a supportive platform for Black trans women and non-binary femmes, offering resources, mentorship, and community for creative expression and professional growth.

Design

• Queer Design Club. A community dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+ designers, connecting creatives in the design industry, showcasing queer design work, and offering professional resources.
• QTBIPOC. A design collective for Queer, Trans, Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, offering a supportive network and platform for QTBIPOC creatives to share and connect.
• Queer|Art. An organization providing resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities for LGBTQIA+ artists across various disciplines, helping creatives build their careers and expand their artistic impact.

Government

• LGBTQIA+ Civil Service Association (LGBTCSA). LGBTCSA is an organization that represents LGBTQIA+ employees in the U.S. federal civil service. It advocates for LGBTQIA+ rights in the workplace, providing a network of support, resources, and professional development opportunities for LGBTQIA+ federal employees.
• Out in National Security. Out in National Security is an advocacy group that supports LGBTQIA+ professionals working in national security and related fields. It aims to provide a safe, inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ individuals and promote equality within the national security sector.
• DOJ Pride – LGBTQIA+ Employees at the U.S. Department of Justice. DOJ Pride is an employee resource group for LGBTQIA+ individuals working at the U.S. Department of Justice. It works to foster an inclusive and supportive environment for LGBTQIA+ employees while advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights within the justice system.

Healthcare

• NALGAP – National Association of LGBTQIA+ Psychiatrists. NALGAP is a professional association dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+ psychiatrists and mental health professionals. It provides resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy to promote mental health care for LGBTQIA+ individuals and to advance the careers of LGBTQIA+ professionals in psychiatry.
• AMA Advisory Committee on LGBTQIA+ Issues. The American Medical Association's Advisory Committee on LGBTQIA+ Issues works to address health disparities within the LGBTQIA+ community. It advises on policies that affect the healthcare needs of LGBTQIA+ individuals and works toward improving inclusivity and understanding in the medical field.
• AMSA – Gender & Sexuality Action Committee. AMSA's Gender & Sexuality Action Committee advocates for LGBTQIA+ rights and equality within medical education. The committee focuses on ensuring that medical students and professionals are trained to provide culturally competent care for LGBTQIA+ patients.
• APA LGBT Health Resources. The American Psychological Association's LGBT Health Resources page provides guidance and information for healthcare providers on best practices in LGBTQIA+ mental health care. It includes research, tools, and resources to promote better healthcare outcomes for LGBTQIA+ individuals.
• AGLP – Association of Gay & Lesbian Psychiatrists. AGLP is a professional organization for LGBTQIA+ psychiatrists and mental health professionals. It advocates for the mental health of LGBTQIA+ individuals and provides support for LGBTQIA+ professionals in psychiatry through networking, education, and research.
• GLMA – Gay and Lesbian Medical Association. GLMA is a national organization representing LGBTQIA+ healthcare professionals. It works to ensure that LGBTQIA+ individuals receive competent, respectful, and culturally appropriate care and supports LGBTQIA+ professionals in the medical field through education, advocacy, and networking.
• GLMA Nursing. GLMA Nursing is a branch of the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association that focuses specifically on LGBTQIA+ issues within the nursing profession. It provides resources, networking, and support for LGBTQIA+ nurses and advocates for better healthcare for LGBTQIA+ patients.
• Pride VMC. Pride VMC is an organization that represents LGBTQIA+ veterinarians and veterinary professionals. It aims to create a safe and inclusive environment within the veterinary profession and provides support, networking, and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ individuals in veterinary medicine.
• WPATH – World Professional Association for Transgender Health. WPATH is an international organization that sets standards of care for transgender health and advocates for the rights and well-being of transgender individuals. It provides resources and education for healthcare professionals on best practices in transgender healthcare and supports global advocacy efforts for transgender rights.

Marketing

• Association of LGBTQ Journalists (NLGJA). A professional organization of LGBTQIA+ journalists, providing support, advocacy, and networking opportunities to promote fair and accurate LGBTQIA+ representation in the media.
• Outvertising. A UK-based organization advocating for authentic LGBTQIA+ representation in advertising and marketing, offering guidance, resources, and industry connections.

Tech

• Lesbians Who Tech. A global community for LGBTQIA+ women, non-binary people, and allies in technology, focused on connecting, mentoring, and empowering queer people in tech.
• LGBTQ in Technology. A Slack-based community connecting LGBTQIA+ people working in technology, offering a space for networking, resource-sharing, and support.
• oSTEM. Out in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics is a professional society that supports LGBTQIA+ people in STEM fields through resources, advocacy, and professional development.
• Out in Tech. A network connecting LGBTQIA+ tech professionals with events, mentorship, and resources to advance inclusivity and diversity in the tech industry.
• Out to Innovate. A professional organization providing networking and career support for LGBTQIA+ people in STEM, with a focus on promoting diversity and inclusion.
• Queer Tech Club. A Chicago-based organization offering networking events and resources to support LGBTQIA+ people in the tech industry.
• Transtech. A social enterprise dedicated to providing economic empowerment, job training, and support for transgender individuals, particularly in tech and related fields.
• LGBTTech Paths. A program by LGBTTech offering guidance and mentorship to help LGBTQIA+ individuals navigate career paths in technology.

Trades

• BuildOut Alliance. BuildOut Alliance is a professional network and advocacy group for LGBTQ+ individuals in the construction and building industries. It aims to create an inclusive and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ professionals through networking, mentorship, and community engagement.
• Reddit – Blue Collar Trans. The Blue Collar Trans subreddit is a community for transgender individuals working in blue-collar industries. It provides a space to discuss the unique challenges faced by trans people in manual labor, trades, and other non-office-based careers, offering support and solidarity.
• Dykes With Drills – Meetups. Dykes With Drills is an organization that brings together queer women and non-binary individuals with an interest in construction, trades, and DIY projects. Its meetups provide an opportunity for skill-sharing, networking, and building community in a supportive, gender-inclusive space.
• Yestermorrow – Affinity Groups. Yestermorrow is a design and build school that offers training in sustainable building, woodworking, and related skills. Their affinity groups create a welcoming space for underrepresented groups, including LGBTQ+ individuals, to learn, share experiences, and develop skills in a community-focused environment.
• Inclusive Blacksmiths. Inclusive Blacksmiths is an organization dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for people from all backgrounds in the blacksmithing community. It provides resources, events, and support for individuals from marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ people, to learn and grow within the craft.