Building Bridges toward LGBT Diversity in the Workplace training is a three-four-hour workshop conducted by two certified Out & Equal trainers. Depending on the needs of the organization, the target group can include senior executives, managers, human resources, diversity professionals, customer service representatives, and the general employee population.  Unique perspectives of the corporate/business, social services, faith communities, governmental and educational settings are included in the various courses.

The course is designed is designed to help employers get the most from all employees, LGBT and non-LGBT.  This training fosters increased awareness to develop a healthier and safer workplace where all employees are engaged in the mission of the organization, increasing the level of comfort for all and improving communication between LGBT and straight employees and the customers they serve.

By the end of the training, participants will be able to:

• State the significance of LGBT identity in the context of broader diversity issues

• Evaluate myths and stereotypes about people who identify LGBT

• Discuss the impact of homophobia, biphobia, transphobia and heterosexism on workplace and customer relationships

• Be familiar with the steps to becoming an ally to the LGBT community and workplace equality

Here are the major modules for the course:.

1. Introduction - why this training is needed; a quick look at the history of discrimination in the workplace and outcomes
2. History of the LGBT community
3. Terminology and concepts around LGBT concepts of birth/assigned sex, gender identity, sexual orientation and gender expression
4. Myths & stereotypes of the LGBT community and in the hospitality industry
5. Business case covering national and state laws, company policies/benefits, recruiting, retention, promotion and customer service when employees are fully engaged.
6. Being an ally to promote workplace equality
7. Action planning for the workplace using internal resources and Out & Equal best practices to identify the next steps for LGBT workplace inclusion

This course can also be tailored to a 90 minute presentation for executives, conference and companies looking to explore what is needed to advance their LGBT policy, benefits and planning.

Check for upcoming Building Bridges dates.

Contact Pat Baillie, Associate Director of Training & Professional Development, at pbaillie@outandequal.org or (415) 694-6521 for more information.