Doc: CareerHub Content Draft (2SLGBTQIA+ Working Group) - Copy for Comms.docx
Self-Reflection
As a member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, you may have several questions about navigating the job application process: Should you include your pronouns in your cover letter? How much should you disclose about your identity in your resume or during an interview?
These are common concerns, and it’s important to take the time to consider how much information you would like to share or not share about yourself and at what stage in the application process. Knowing your rights as a candidate and what employers are and are not allowed to ask is also empowering.
Everyone has a right to feel safe in a workplace free of discrimination or harassment. For some people, it’s also very important to work for an employer that shares their values. Some important considerations to keep in mind before applying for a job:
- Do I view my professional life as an extension or as separate from my personal life?
- What values matter most to me in a workplace? Will it impact my ability to do my job if my employer does not share my values?
- How important is it for me to work somewhere where I can be my true self?
If it is important for you to be able to show up as your full self at work, you may find that you want to prioritize finding an environment that celebrates diversity and inclusion, where you can thrive both professionally and personally.
Job Searching
Where can I look for a 2SLGBTQIA+ friendly job or network?
Pride at Work Canada: A non-profit organization that supports inclusive workplaces and offers a job bank.
exeQutive: A forum for 2SLGBTQIA+ folks based in the greater Toronto area (GTA) that features networking events and guest speakers.
Canadian Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC): Canada is home to over 100,000 2SLGBTQI+-owned businesses. CGLCC offers programs that either support 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs with training and tools to be more successful in Canada’s business landscape, or help businesses better support 2SLGBTQI+ employees, businesses and consumers.
Start Proud: Provides learning and networking opportunities to 2SLGBTQIA+ undergraduate and graduate students in business, law and technology programs, as well as an annual conference Out on Bay Street.  Its Proud on Campus Program works with queer student groups, offering support, advocacy and the tools needed to make a difference on campus.
GLOW Centre for Sexual and Gender Diversity provides a place to “meet new people, learn about current 2SLGBTQ+ issues, and have a little fun in a safe space.”
https://wusa.ca/services/student-run-services/glow/
University of Toronto’s Your Journey: A Career Guide for Trans and Nonbinary Students is designed to offer helpful resources and information to trans and nonbinary students to help make the best career decisions for them.
https://sgdo.utoronto.ca/resource/your-journey-guide/
How can I tell if a company I encounter is 2SLGBTQIA+ friendly?
When searching for 2SLGBTQIA+-friendly employers, start by researching the company’s policies and values on their website and social media. Look for inclusive non-discrimination policies, employee resource groups, participation in diversity events (e.g., Toronto Pride) and public statements supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ rights.  Third-party reviews on platforms like Glassdoor can also offer alternative perspectives about whether an organization is truly inclusive.
See if they’ve been recognized by equity awards or indexes, such as  Canada's Best Diversity Employers, which recognizes employers that are putting in the work to make diversity, equity and inclusion a high priority in their organization. For American companies, you can see if they’ve been included in the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index.
Consider reaching out to current or former employees from 2SLGBTQIA+ networks for insights.
Ask questions during the interview.