Breaking the Rainbow Ceiling: How LGBTQ+ people can thrive and succeed at work

By Layla McCay

A compelling look at the challenges facing LGBTQ+ people in the workplace, as they navigate their careers - with advice from many professionals who have smashed their own rainbow ceilings.

Currently there are only four LGBTQ+ CEOs in the Fortune 500; <1% of these companies’ board positions are filled by LGBTQ+ people. In the UK, the figures are just as uninspiring: there are no out CEOs in the FTSE 100. Numbers in the public sector are not dissimilar. This gives us insight into some of the hidden differences in, and challenges to, professional opportunity that continue to play out for LGBTQ+ people around the world.

Breaking the Rainbow Ceiling explores why this community remains underrepresented at the most senior levels of professional life, and how all of us—from companies, boards, and HR professionals, through to individuals navigating their career paths—can address these barriers to help everyone thrive and succeed.

The book shares insights from interviews with high-profile LGBTQ+ leaders to identify common problems and areas where opportunities exist. It also provides strategies to overcome those challenges and empower people to reach their full professional potential. A special feature of the book is a composite “letter to our younger selves,” written by the interviewees, which will provide an inspiring and moving message to every reader.