kearney.com: What else do you think the company can do to create an even more accepting space for the LGBTIQ+ community?

Hannes: There are still areas in the world where LGBTIQ+ rights are not as respected as they are in Europe, and this is something we need to fight for. All of our colleagues should feel comfortable and be able to be their true best. This needs to be the new norm across the board.

kearney.com: Do you have any advice for your LGBTIQ+ colleagues—whether here at Kearney or elsewhere—if they are struggling to be truly out and themselves at work?

Hannes: First, try to be as open as you possibly can. Being out helps you to be exactly who you are and brings out all the strengths that you have. And if that’s not possible, reach out to the Proud Network if you are at Kearney—they know how to deal with it.

Second, consider your diversity as an asset—a USP (unique selling proposition), as a consultant would say. You have unique strengths that will enrich each project team and help deliver superior results to clients.