LGBTQ+ inclusion is moving in the right direction – but we’re not there yet

When I was at secondary school, there was, I believe, only one openly gay individual – they were subject to bullying and microaggressions, so throughout my adolescence, I was naturally very guarded about my sexuality. Fortunately, there’s been a noticeable difference in attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community over the years.

I studied at Winchester University – largely because it was far away from my hometown. I wanted a fresh start where I didn’t know anyone. Uni was my opportunity to be open about my sexuality and be my authentic self from the outset.
 

Pride is helping to bolster acceptance

If I think back 12 years ago, when I first started my career, Pride wasn't what it is now. Back then, the Pride parade was a small group of people marching through the streets – not the big, weekend-long festivals with huge headline acts that you see today. Nowadays, you see children at Pride events, which wasn’t so much the case a number of years ago. It reassures me that this growing acceptance and inclusivity will continue improving, as future generations are getting involved and celebrating diversity.

It’s important to remember that, yes, Pride is a celebration of inclusion, eccentricity, colour, and fun, but it was born out of struggle, segregation, and a very dark time. It has an important meaning and deep history, which is why it’s great to witness its development and huge growth.
 

Microaggressions are offensive – we need to stop making assumptions

Certain communities, including people who identify as LGBTQ+, do still face microaggressions. I feel like people are becoming more conscious about how they might unintentionally offend others, just through lack of thought, but we’re not where we need to be yet; more steps need to be taken to stop this happening.

I’ve faced instances of microaggressions in my personal life, for example, when people are talking about football around me and they think I don’t watch it, as they sweepingly assume that gay men don’t enjoy football because it's a masculine environment. People seem surprised to find out that I love military history and war films, which you might not associate with a gay man. These are all stereotypes and social constructs that people have. I think that the takeaway from this is to never assume and always try to be inclusive by letting go of your preconceived ideas.
 

Inclusion in the workplace has improved in the last decade

I began My Hays Story in 2011 and I’ve since progressed to my current role of senior manager as part of our Enterprise division. Hays are really pushing their DE&I agenda, for example, rolling out business-wide compulsory training in unconscious biases. People that identify as LGBTQ+ are represented in leadership positions, like me, and that’s important for new joiners to see. It reinforces that it's ok to be your authentic self at work – and that support networks exist here.

Our recent acquisition of Vercida has been huge for LGBTQ+ employees, as their mission is to make the workplace a diverse and inclusive environment for all. Our brand message, ‘Working for your tomorrow’, isn’t a throwaway statement – tangible actions are being taken to ensure DE&I here at Hays continues moving in the right direction.
 

Be an ally! Keep growing networks of inclusivity

I think the most important way we can continue moving towards a more inclusive future is for everyone to be allies of the LGBTQ+ community. This means supporting and celebrating the community, having the confidence to challenge archaic opinions, and learning by asking questions.

For example, you can join our internal Pride network whether you identify as a member of the community or not – join as an ally! The LGBTQ+ community doesn’t want to be segregated – we want everyone to support each other, no matter how they identify, so get involved today.

If you’d be interested in working for a company that celebrates diversity like Hays, then take a look at our careers page.