Proud to B

Our latest research asked students: do you believe you can pursue any career path you wish? Only 54% of those who identified as LGBT+ answered yes. That means almost half of this group don’t believe they’ll be able to pursue any career path they choose. This is a lower confidence level than any other group – compared to 65% average, 59% who identify as having a disability and 75% from a BAME background who answered yes to this question.

This event in its second year gave the LGBT+ community a chance to shine. We invited 60+ hand-picked members  – those who identify as LGBT+ and allies – for an inspirational day of networking with leading employers.

Our research shows that an organisation’s culture is a key factor when choosing a graduate role. 40% of our members named ‘people & culture’ as the most important when choosing a graduate role – rising to 43% among LGBT+ respondents. Today’s graduates prioritise an employer that offers a friendly, respectful and flexible work environment.

Our partners at this event had the chance to share key insights about their business culture and their diversity & inclusion initiatives. Through structured virtual networking sessions, they were able to meet and network with attendees during the day.

Their partnership package included:
- Structured networking to meet pre-screened Bright Network members
- CVs and key academic details for each attendee
- Company profile included in pre-event marketing to members
- The chance for a senior leader from their organisation to sit on a panel for event attendees and/or the opportunity to send a recent graduate/young professional to share their success story