Discrimination is everywhere.
Despite the existence of anti-discrimination laws that are in effect in the country, it can't be denied that discrimination is one of the leading concerns of many individuals. This is prevalent particularly in the workplace where unsuspecting applicants are already judged based on their race, gender, ethnicity, and even religion.
In addition to the tedious job search, an applicant belonging to the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community has to worry if the company does not have a welcoming environment for employees who have decided to "come out" at work. Such transition or coming out sometimes stirs negative reactions from fellow employees and even superiors. As such, aside from prepping up a basic resume, LGBT job hopefuls should also exert extra effort in searching for the best company for them.
In order to ensure the success of a job application, members of the LGBT community should consider doing the following:
Prepare an Irresistible Resume
Long before you start handing out your application, you should first consider crafting an effective resume that can help you in your job search. Make sure that you properly equip your application with the much-needed information such as specific skills, transferable abilities, technical and language proficiencies, and accomplishments.
Never settle for a basic resume. Your application is your personalized marketing tool, thus, using basic applications can only prompt you to sell yourself short of what you actually worth. You already have discrimination hanging on your head. Don't make it worst by submitting a second-rate pre-employment document.
Name to Use
One of the frequently asked questions by LGBT job hopefuls is whether it is advisable to use their preferred name on their application. Using your preferred name in your resume is okay as long as you're comfortable in disclosing your sexual orientation.
Moreover, you can also freely use your preferred name if you have already secured a court order for your name change. If you are yet to secure one, you might want to stick with your given name for some time.
Discretion during Application
Your LGBT affiliation can make or break your job search. As such, make sure that before improving your basic resume and submitting it, you have thoroughly conducted a search of the companies that are known to accept job candidates from LGBT organizations. Doing so will not only decrease the time spent on your search, but it will also increase your chances of being hired.
It is your choice whether you would like to "come out" during your job search or be discreet about your gender orientation. You should not let yourself be deprived of your right to feel at ease with your own skin. Everyone has the freedom to express himself. As for your job search, don't lose hope and stay positive. It may be tough to find the right company for you with your orientation and a simple application document. However, with your determination and willingness to improve, you can certainly get the job that you've always wanted.
Melinda Edwards works as a career consultant and has been invited in many forums and events on human resource management. She is also a time management expert who effectively performs her roles both as a career woman and a mother.
