Published in the April 2025 Edition
By Johanna M. Dolan
Leadership is rarely easy. But stepping into leadership as an LGBTQ professional in workplaces that weren't designed with us in mind? That's another level of challenge—and opportunity. Many of us have found ourselves in boardrooms, offices, and organizations where we are the only LGBTQ person at the table or where inclusion is more of a tagline than a lived practice. And yet, we lead.
So, how do we navigate these spaces while staying true to who we are? How thrive instead of just survive?
The truth is, we've always been leaders—whether in activism, community-building, or simply by showing up as our whol
e selves in environments that might not always be welcoming. The path isn't always clear, and there are actions we can take that can help us step into our power, advocate for change, and create space for those who come after us.
Owning Your Seat at the Table
If you wait for someone else to give you permission to lead, you might be waiting a long time. LGBTQ professionals often have to advocate for themselves in ways that others don’t, whether it’s ensuring equitable pay, pushing for inclusive policies, or simply being recognized for their contributions.
How to Advocate for Yourself:
Know your worth by consistently tracking your accomplishments and contributions. When the time comes for promotions or negotiations, let data speak louder than emotion. Set firm boundaries and refuse to shrink yourself to fit into a culture that fails to recognize or respect you; clear expectations around respect and inclusion are essential. And don't underestimate the power of your voice. Whether you're addressing microaggressions or advocating for policy changes, speaking up can be uncomfortable, but the cost of silence is often far greater.
Finding (and Becoming) a Mentor
Leadership doesn’t happen in isolation. Having a mentor—especially one who understands the unique challenges of being LGBTQ in professional spaces—can be game-changing. If you don’t see one in your workplace, look outside of it. Organizations like Out & Equal, The Human Rights Campaign, and local LGBTQ leadership groups can connect you to those who have walked this road before.
How to Build Mentorship Networks:
Seek out leaders you admire—while they don't need to be LGBTQ, they should be true allies who understand and value inclusion. Don't hesitate to ask for guidance; many accomplished professionals are open to mentoring but simply haven't been approached. As you grow, pay it forward by mentoring others and building the support system you once wished for.
Creating Space for Others
Authentic leadership isn't just about personal success—it's about making the path wider for those who follow. One of the most powerful things we can do as LGBTQ leaders is to actively create more inclusive workplaces for those coming up behind us.
Ways to Build Inclusive Workplaces:
Normalize conversations about inclusion by advocating for LGBTQ-friendly policies, gender-neutral restrooms, and equitable hiring practices. Use your influence to amplify underrepresented voices, whether that means supporting diverse hiring, championing equity initiatives, or ensuring everyone at the table is truly heard. Most importantly, lead by example. Show up as your authentic self because your visibility sends a powerful message: when others see you thriving, they believe they can also.
Thriving, Not Just Surviving
The reality is that many workplaces weren't built with us in mind—but that doesn't mean we don't belong. It means we can redefine what leadership looks like, push for progress, and claim our space with confidence.
If you’re an LGBTQ leader (or aspiring to be one), know this: you don’t have to conform to outdated leadership models. You don’t have to check parts of yourself at the door. You are enough as you are, and your leadership—bold, authentic, and unapologetically you—is exactly what the world needs.
What has helped you navigate leadership in spaces that weren’t built for you? Let’s keep this conversation going. Share your experiences, challenges, and strategies. I’d love to hear from you.
Until next time, keep showing up for yourself and for those who need you.