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Photography by Myles Loftin

When it comes to being an entrepreneur, Andrew Nicol says his identity as a gay man has been a boon rather than a hindrance. "I feel very grateful that's the case," says the founder and CEO of Element Brooklyn, a sustainable candle company based in New York. "I know it's not always the case for everyone."

Navigating the business world as a member of the LGBTQ community is not easy for many. As longtime LGBTQ rights advocate and business leader Brian Ellner notes, fewer than half of LGBTQ folks are out at work, and fewer than 1 percent of Fortune 500 companies have an LGBTQ board member.

But many LGBTQ business leaders and entrepreneurs believe that despite the challenges of coming out--and the cyclical backlash around DEI initiatives--visibility is incredibly important when it comes to finding success in business.

Marc Coleman, founder and CEO of the Tactile Group, an Inc. 5000 honoree, notes that as a Black and gay man, he's had trouble accessing networks, raising funds, and feeling like he can be his authentic self in certain workplaces and environments. He says the solution has been "to live loud and proud," and to build a culture within his own company that prioritizes equity and visibility.

Inc. spoke to other business leaders to get their point of view on visibility, and their advice for young LGBTQ people entering the business world.

"I don't believe my identity as a transwoman has significantly impacted my career, either positively or negatively. During the initial years of Lechery, I wasn't open about being trans, and no one asked me about it. It was only when I witnessed the increasing negativity in the news toward the transgender community that I decided to come out. Despite society's attempts to diminish our worth, I wanted to demonstrate that people like me can be normal, functioning members of society and competent business leaders.

"If you're part of the LGBTQ community and are publicly open about it, it's crucial to research whether the company you're applying to supports LGBTQ employees. Look for inclusive policies, diversity programs, and employee resource groups. If you're not open about your identity, it's still important to speak up and defend the community when negative remarks occur. If you find that the organization is overwhelmingly opposed to your beliefs, it might not be the right place for you."........

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