Role Model: Lauren Adams, Senior Communications Executive

Lauren Adams, Senior Communications Executive at TEKSytems is our next role model. Lauren is a little newer to the recruitment sector and is seeing positive steps being taken to make it a more inclusive place. As Lauren says below, ‘you can’t be what you can’t see’ and we couldn’t agree more. Read Lauren’s why Lauren wanted to be a Campaign role model and how she hopes it will help those that come into the industry after her.

What changes have you seen within the recruitment sector for LGBTQ+ people? 

I'm still relatively new to the sector but the introduction of Campaign as an LGBTQ+ industry network is a big step in the right direction and that's been great to see. I've definitely been a part of more conversations than ever about LGBTQ+ inclusion in the workplace and have seen it become more of a focus area for organisations.

What changes would you like to see and how can the recruitment sector do better for LGBTQ+ people?

I'd love to see the recruitment sector reach a point where everyone feels comfortable going to work being their true authentic self without fear of not being accepted.  I think representation of the LGBTQ+ community in the sector needs to continue to improve so that the community can find role models and understand the vital role they play in driving the sector forward.

Why is it important that people have LGBTQ+ role models within the recruitment sector? 

You can't be what you can't see! Having worked in environments without LGBTQ+ role models, I know how uncomfortable and nerve-wracking it can be bringing that part of your identity to work. I've questioned whether I'm in the right organisation, sector or role at stages in my career because of the lack of role models and struggled to see how "someone like me" could succeed or progress. I think representation and role models are so important for leading the way and creating a better future in the sector for those that come after us.

What do you hope being a visible role model in the recruitment sector will achieve for LGBTQ+ people, allies and those within the sector in general? 

I want everyone to see their worth, both personally and professionally and help them see the value they add to organisations/the sector. I'd be the first to say that that isn't easy but I hope that by being a role model I can help people see that you can be your authentic self and do well, our differences are what make us better and help us collectively succeed. I hope I can support allies by speaking out and being open about my experiences, helping them understand the impact of allyship and how to be a great ally. I hope that Campaign can provide people within the sector a safe space for support to be their full, authentic self especially if they don't feel comfortable doing so elsewhere.

Thank you Lauren for being our third role model. If you’d like to hear more from Lauren and our other role models please join our next event ‘Being an Ally’ where they are all on our panel. The event is on the 1st February and open to both the LGBTQ+ community and allies.