Job search and the LGBTI Community

 

For many in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) community, the decision to come out to potential employers can be difficult – especially coming from and enjoying the benefits of a more supportive college environment.

 

For most, being part of the LGBTI community is such a large part of their lives that suppressing it is at the very least difficult and unnatural. So what are some options for the LGBTI community?

 

When asked what students should do in an interview if a candidate references an organization or event related to LGBTI issues and receives a grimacing or unexpected reaction from an interviewer; Andrew Ceperley, Director of Career Services at UC San Diego said “the real question a candidate should ask is, “Does this person’s inappropriate remark in any way represent the working culture of this organization?”  If it does, clearly this is an employer to be avoided.  Any legal action the candidate may wish to take needs to be balanced with the candidate’s need to focus his/her energy on finding the right fit.”

 

This is an excellent point. Should more energy be focused on finding a good fit? If so, what are some of the steps a person can take to find the best fit? Please contribute to this discussion.

 

Some resources that may help you are:

• www.HRC.org
• www.PlanetOut.com
• www.prideatwork.org
• http://www.progayjobs.com
• www.gaywork.com