How to Start a Gay/Lesbian Group at Your Workplace

Many corporations and enterprises put money into finding and keeping good staff. They aim to be sensitive to their employees’ wants and wishes. People who identify as LGBTQ may want additional support from their colleagues, particularly when at work. Forming a support group or a social group will allow LGBTQ employees in the workplace to talk about their feelings and views, as well as the obstacles and opportunities that exist. 

Steps

Request that a new group be formed through the company’s HR department. Any group that is formed in the workplace must be considered and approved by HR. Make an appointment with a member of the HR department. Prepare for the meeting by writing down the group’s purpose, a mission statement, and the group’s desired goals and outcomes.

Obtain management’s recognition and approval. The establishment of an LGBTQ organization at work will require the backing of the company’s leadership. Involving managers from the start will aid in their commitment to the group.

Invite members. Begin inviting others to join the group once the proposal has been accepted. All employees in the company, regardless of sexual orientation, should be welcome to join the group. Give individuals an easy way to join up, whether it’s by email or an informal verbal commitment, by explaining the group’s objective and aims.

Make an appointment for the first meeting. To hold the meeting, find a conference room or a private office. Create an agenda and a sign-in sheet so that attendees can exchange contact information. Welcome everyone to the meeting and publicly thank the company and its leadership for their support of the group’s formation.

Organize meetings and events on a regular basis. A productive workplace group will be active and meet on a regular basis. Always keep HR and management up to date on when and where meetings and events will be held, especially if they occur during business hours. To reduce the amount of company time spent on the group’s business, take advantage of lunch breaks or meet together right before or after work.

Share information about the group’s activities. Inform the company about the group’s activities and how they are benefiting gay and lesbian employees at work. To announce events and meetings, several businesses establish a newsletter or company website.