Learn how to bring your whole self to work (without fear)
For many LGBTQIA+ professionals, “bringing your whole self to work” sounds like a beautiful idea — in theory.
But in reality? It can feel complicated, risky and plain exhausting.
Because while workplaces say they value authenticity, it’s often LGBTQIA+ people who are left to figure out what that really means — and whether it’s actually safe to be seen.
The truth is: Being out at work isn’t just a moment. It’s an ongoing journey. It’s navigating micro-decisions every day about how much to share, how visible to be, and how to protect your wellbeing.
It’s growing as a person into the identity that you want to share, and feeling confident in yourself to step into that space.
I’m not here to tell you that you should be out at work. Only you can decide that.
But if you want to bring more of your whole, brilliant, queer self to work — this is for you.
Start with safety
Let’s be clear: You don’t owe anyone your story.
Coming out at work is deeply personal — and your safety (emotional, psychological, and physical) matters more than any idea of “authenticity.”
Ask yourself:
Is this environment genuinely inclusive, or just performative?
Will being out here expand my sense of freedom — or my stress?
Do I have allies or mentors who’ve walked this path?
Bringing your whole self to work should feel empowering — not pressured.
Define what authenticity looks like for you
Authenticity isn’t all-or-nothing.
For some, it’s putting pronouns in an email signature. For others, it’s talking openly about their partner at lunch. For someone else, it’s just not having to lie anymore.
There’s no right way to be LGBTQIA+ at work. You get to decide what’s private, what’s personal, and what’s powerful to share.
Carve out some time to really sit down and define what authenticity looks like for you.
Make a list of all the things you want to be able to say, do or share in the workplace, and share it with a trusted friend or mentor. Having someone else to bounce ideas off can really help you to micro-step into that authentic version of you.
Build your confidence muscles
Like any skill, self-advocacy and confidence grow over time.
Here are some practical ways to strengthen them:
Practice sharing your story in low-stakes spaces (like queer networking events or with your LGBTQIA+ friends).
Learn how to communicate your boundaries or correct assumptions. The more you communicate out of shared respect, the stronger that confidence will grow!
Seek out LGBTQIA+ mentors or role models who inspire you.
Confidence doesn’t mean never feeling scared — it means feeling prepared and supported.
Find (or build) your community
The biggest game-changer? Not doing this alone.
Whether it’s an employee resource group, a Slack channel, a queer mentor, or a community network — finding people who get it makes everything easier.
Community reminds us that we’re enough, we’re not alone, and most importantly, that we belong.
Get support designed for you
That’s exactly why we created the Out for Australia Career Academy for LGBTQIA+ Professionals.
This isn’t just another career course.
It’s a program built by LGBTQIA+ people, for LGBTQIA+ people — to help you:
Navigate being out (or not) at work.
Build confidence in your career journey.
Learn from leaders who’ve been exactly where you are.
Connect with a supportive, inspiring community
Because your authenticity isn’t a liability — it’s a leadership strength.
Ready to bring your whole self to work (on your terms)?
Learn more about the Out for Australia Career Academy for LGBTQIA+ Professionals and join a community that gets you.
https://www.outforaustralia.org/mentoring-program
Final thought
You deserve to feel safe, seen, and successful at work — exactly as you are.
Bringing your whole self to work isn’t about being loud or perfect or out to everyone. It’s about being free.
Free to choose, belong, and to thrive.
And that’s something every LGBTQIA+ professional deserves.
