Networking for LGBTQ+ professionals: building your community

Professional networks are one of the strongest predictors of career success. LGBTQ+ professionals often face additional barriers to building them. LGBTQ+-specific communities reduce this friction significantly.

Why networking matters and why it is harder for LGBTQ+ professionals

Research by LinkedIn found that 70-85% of jobs are filled through networking. For LGBTQ+ professionals, networking often involves an additional layer: whether to be out in professional settings and how to handle personal questions. LGBTQ+-specific communities reduce this friction — when you network in a space designed for LGBTQ+ professionals, you can build connections without managing your identity simultaneously.

Building your network on myGwork

• Complete your profile to increase visibility to employers and other professionals
• Connect with purpose — send personalised messages explaining why you want to connect
• Engage with content as a lower-stakes way to start a relationship
• Attend WorkFair and WorkPride — the largest LGBTQ+ professional events globally

Making the most of LinkedIn

• Add pronouns to your profile — LinkedIn supports dedicated pronoun fields
• Join LGBTQ+ LinkedIn groups for your sector
• Engage with content from myGwork, Stonewall, HRC, and other LGBTQ+ organisations

In-person networking

myGwork’s WorkPride is the largest annual LGBTQ+ professional conference globally, with speakers, panels, and networking across multiple industries. For LGBTQ+-specific events, you can network without managing identity disclosure simultaneously.

Sponsorship: the most powerful networking outcome

A mentor gives advice. A sponsor uses their capital to advocate for you. Research by Catalyst found that employees with sponsors are 23% more likely to advance in their careers. To build sponsor relationships: be visible on high-profile projects; identify potential sponsors who champion people different from themselves; and keep potential sponsors informed of your achievements and goals.

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