Understanding the Value of Teamwork in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Jak Matthews, Diversity Equity and Inclusion specialist at BT Group shares their DE&I journey and why LGBTQ+ inclusion is essential in the workplace.

Hi Jak! Tell us a bit about your career journey to date.

I have had a bit of a wonky career, I fell out of university into the first job I could find, ended up working in a construction firm, it wasn’t really for me and pushed me firmly back into the closet for a few years and made me feel like I needed to carve my career in a direction that fit. I made my way into financial services and then quickly moved into HR and finally settled after a few different roles into specializing in Diversity Equity and Inclusion.

What's the most challenging aspect of managing people right now?

For me I always feel like it’s like herding cats, whether you are fully virtual, in the office or hybrid. Getting all the people together is always a challenge but existing in a mixed workforce brings some unique challenges. You have to really consider when the right time is to bring people together to get the most value out of it.

What attributes do you look for in new recruits and why?

Someone who brings a unique perspective is always the most likely to stand out to me in any recruitment situation. It's more about the skills they can articulate the literal experience. I think we should be well past the days we look at a CV and make an assumption of competency based on longevity with an organization.

How important is LGBTQ+ inclusion in the workplace for you personally?

For me it’s essential, I couldn't be myself or exist in an organization without it. I am very openly out as a trans woman and my identity is very visible. But it’s not just important to me on a personal level it’s also about organizational values to me too. If inclusion isn’t a priority in your organization, we aren’t a match. If you aren’t loudly inclusive as an organization, you are quietly telling prospective candidates you aren’t.