Inclusive Corporate Event Planning to Keep Pride Alive All Year

Inclusive corporate event planning is on everybody’s lips and social media feeds during Pride Month in June. But come 1st July, the sequinned confetti is hoovered up and the office glitter cannon is put on furlough for another 12 months. The thing is, inclusive corporate event planning isn’t a limited edition latte, and shouldn’t be approached as such.

It’s the 21st century. This means giving extra thought to LGBTQ+ inclusive events 365 days a year. So, settle in while we share the secrets of baking in diversity and inclusion with every corporate event you organise.

Inclusive Corporate Event Planning Starts with Vetting Your Venue

Got a grand ballroom or quirky warehouse shortlisted? You need to ensure it’s a solid foundation for LGBTQ+ friendly events. This means factoring the following into your MO:

·        Inspect policies - Zero tolerance on discrimination and a written inclusion statement are the bare minimum.

·        Ask about partnerships - Hotels and venues that support local LGBTQ+ charities or host community events are hot picks.

·        Scope the loos - Gender neutral, accessible toilets indicate they’ve thought beyond binary. That said, choice is key. So, your best bet is offering mixed facilities alongside traditional male and female.

·        Read the reviews - Positive feedback about warm welcomes is a winning sign. Conversely, give a hard pass to anywhere with previous allegations of discrimination.

And once you’re satisfied with your venue? Ensuring everybody else, both internally and externally, is on board.

Gather Your Dream Team

Your caterer’s canapés might be Michelin-starred. But it’s a resounding no if they’re known for snide service.

Take the following simple steps to mitigate the risk of unwelcome micro-aggressions:

·        Source wisely - Use supplier directories vetted by LGBTQ+ bodies like Proud Employers (or rely on our little black book of legends).

·        Train for trust - Even the loveliest staff need refreshers on pronouns, privilege, and how to shut down negative language.

·        Brief all crews - Everyone should understand your inclusion policy and be empowered to enforce it, from AV technicians to baristas.

Now you’ve sorted the place and people, prepare to get loud and proud.

Don’t Keep Your Zero Tolerance Policy Hidden in the Closet

Is your anti-discrimination stance currently buried on page 47 of the delegate pack? That needs to change. Thankfully, it’s no biggie to bring it front and centre, with:

·        Pre-event comms - Send a clear statement homophobia and transphobia aren’t tolerated.

·        Visible signage - Post reminders around the venue, even with witty slogans if it’s in keeping with your organisation.

·        Enforcement plan - Trained staff + swift action = attendees who feel genuinely protected.

In addition, avoid any accusations of virtue signalling by demonstrating inclusive corporate event planning on stage, at the heart of the action.

Rock the Representation

Event attendees are as diverse as the society we live and work in. For this reason, your agenda should sparkle with voices that reflect your audience’s kaleidoscope of identities.

So, when you think about inclusive corporate event planning, think about elements like:

·        Diverse panels - Book openly LGBTQ+ speakers across all topics, not just a token gesture for the diversity tick box.

·        Interactive formats - Get creative with workshops, mindfulness breaks, even cabaret karaoke, so everyone feels seen and heard.

·        Measure and improve - Carry out post-event surveys, anonymous if needed, asking about inclusivity. And use the feedback to help you level up next time.

Furthermore, don’t shy away from sharing both wins and fails. After all, the whole industry gets better at LGBTQ+ inclusive events when you normalise talking about what went right and what was frankly embarrassing.

Make Your Next Event Sparkle

Why juggle 27 venue emails when you can sip coffee and leave our corporate venue finding service to it?

At the Venue Hunters, we source the perfect LGBTQ+ friendly venues across the UK, Ireland, Europe and beyond, saving you time, stress, and pennies.

Drop us a line for completely FREE, fabulous venue sourcing. Because inclusive corporate event planning shouldn’t be packed up with the bunting. And neither should your standards. So, let’s keep the rainbow flag (and your budget) flying high all year long.