Last month, University Career Services, in collaboration with the LGBTQA+ Center, the Nebraska Alumni Association and Pride in Business, held an event called, Pride In The Workplace. Through short panels of professionals speaking on topics dealing with job searching, interviewing, career growth and networking, they educated the University of Nebraska-Lincoln community on ways to find an inclusive workplace. In case you missed it, here are the top 4 takeaways from Pride In The Workplace.  

Research the company’s values before the interview 

You can figure out a lot about a company’s values and dedication to inclusivity just by researching the company before the interview. Start by looking to see if the company has an inclusion or diversity statement on their website. While looking for that, you can examine their use of pronouns throughout their website. Additionally, you can dive deeper and investigate what organizations, issues or politicians they support financially. Finding out where they prioritize their finances will tell you a lot about the company’s values. 

Ask relevant questions during the interview 

A great way to get a feel for the inclusivity of the company is to ask questions about it during the interview. You can ask about the culture of the company, types of community associations they take part in and what kind of employee engagement activities they plan. You can also directly ask about how they execute their commitment to diversity and inclusion. At the end of the interview, you can also ask to walk through the office space so you can take note of how their current employees are engaging and other signs of inclusiveness.  

Evaluate your offer and company policies 

Once you are offered a job, take time to review your offer and the company policies with inclusion in mind. Look at the health insurance and benefits. Does it include benefits for relationships beyond married men and women? Do they provide paternity leave or leave for foster care and adoptions? Look at the dress code and make sure it’s inclusive of your gender expression. As always, review the salary offer and ensure you are getting a fair salary based on your qualifications, industry and location. 

Find a mentor to guide you as you get started on your career 

It can be someone in your industry, someone in your new company, or just someone you know. Whoever it is, make sure you can trust them and that they’ll have your best interest heart. This way, you have someone in your corner who can give you advice and help you through challenges should they ever arise.  

By following these tips you’re sure to find a workplace that is inclusive and supportive of you. If it turns out the company doesn’t meet your diversity and inclusivity standards, keep looking. Don’t forget to stand up for yourself and never compromise your values for a job. There’s a company out there that will accept you for who you are, you just have to find them.  To find more info, check out the Career Services LGBTQA+ Identity Resources.