This new tech platform helps young queer professionals connect with inclusive companies

The working world is continuously evolving to be more diverse and inclusive than ever before. But for young LGBTQ employees, it can still be daunting to seek out job positions without the reassurance that they will feel accepted by their new companies. 

Campus Pride, a nonprofit dedicated to making college and university campuses safer and more welcoming for LGBTQ people, announced the launch of Campus Pride Career Connect — a career portal to help young queer adults create professional connections with LGBTQ-friendly companies. 

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"While more companies have made great strides in LGBTQ-inclusive policies and practices, there still remains systemic cultural disparities and bias for LGBTQ people on the job and in recruitment, hiring and the search process," Shane Windmeyer, Campus Pride executive director said in a press release. "The idea came from several conversations with LGBTQ students, specifically our trans, nonbinary and queer youth of color, who shared trepidation about applying for certain jobs and the hiring processes." 

Using the Career Connect platform, prospective hires can engage with companies and recruiters, who offer career prep help, mentorship and even one-on-one relationship building with other employees from participating organizations. The goal is to help break down systemic barriers and create career pathways early on in young professionals' careers.

While an important resource for job seekers, LGBTQ-friendly employers can benefit from the recruiting opportunities the platform provides. Organizations will use the Career Connect platform to recruit a diverse talent pool of job candidates; connect with college students to build job skills and readiness; and offer their existing employees volunteer opportunities to get directly involved in helping LGBTQ young people as they start their career paths.

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Students, young professionals and mentors can sign up for the platform at no cost. Employers have the option of a paid membership that allows them to post jobs, internships, recruiting events and resources. PINK by Victoria Secret, The Hershey Company, Uber and Teach for America are among the companies engaging on the platform so far.  

"The Campus Pride Career Connect began three years ago as an idea for ways to support LGBTQ young people as they make the transition from school to chosen career," Tom Elliot, Campus Pride board chair, said in the release. "Each of our inaugural corporate partners are supporting and investing in the next generation of LGBTQ talent."