We often talk about the “Glass Ceiling” in business. For LGBTQ+ professionals, the barrier is often more complicated.
Pride in Leadership is a network born right here in Manchester. Following their groundbreaking report on the barriers to LGBTQ+ career progression, they have launched a new initiative to tackle these obstacles.
The report found that while many organisations wave the rainbow flag in June, LGBTQ+ staff still face significant hurdles. A lack of visible role models and the exhaustion of adjusting behaviour to fit traditional norms means many talented individuals stall in middle management. They settle for “safe” roles where they feel accepted rather than pushing for the “great” roles they deserve.
In response, Pride in Leadership has created a new Open Programme of Training. It is designed to teach leadership skills and to dismantle the specific barriers our community faces.
The programme is built around four key pillars. You can take them as individual courses or as a complete journey:
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Overcoming barriers to career progression. This is not just about identifying discrimination. It is about understanding how your own identity and lived experience shape your ambition. It helps you find the courage to move from surviving at work to thriving.
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How to strive for greatness. This is perhaps the most crucial module for those feeling stuck. Many LGBTQ+ professionals limit their own scope to avoid conflict. This course is about raising your sights and building habits rooted in purpose rather than safety.
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Building healthy work connections. Networking can often feel cold or exclusionary. This module focuses on creating genuine professional relationships. It teaches how to build a network of allies who speak for you when you are not in the room.
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Becoming a powerful LGBTQ+ person of influence. We often underestimate the power of our own stories. This final piece helps professionals recognise their unique power. It strengthens communication style so you can influence authentically without diluting who you are.
For Manchester’s LGBTQ+ community, this is a chance to turn the findings of the recent report into personal action. We have always been a city of pioneers. It is time that spirit was reflected in our boardrooms too.
Get Involved
The courses are open for registration now. Whether you are looking to take the next step in your own career or you are a leader looking to support your LGBTQ+ talent, this is the practical toolkit you have been waiting for.
Find out more and register here: On The Level