In 2011, Susan Wolford, a Los Angeles-based wealth advisor for Morgan Stanley, got an extraordinary referral. The beneficiary of a large estate wanted to meet with her to discuss managing her investments specifically because Wolford was accredited in domestic-partner tax and estate planning — and openly gay. The potential client made it very clear that “she wants someone who might deal with her and her partner in an all-encompassing way,” the referring attorney told Wolford. Wolford’s consultancy earns one percent on assets it manages, so the client’s decision to go with her group amounted to a substantial sum — quite a testament to the power of being out in the workplace.
Why LGBT Employees Need Workplace Allies
Over 40 percent of LGBT workers remain closeted despite the benefits of being out.
June 20, 2013
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Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Attracting and Cultivating Talent. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Discover how to attract, hire, develop, and keep talented people who will grow and thrive throughout their employee journey.