Resilience and Representation: HR Advocacy in the LGBTQ+ Community with Sterling Freeman

In this episode of the LGBTQ+ Excellent Podcast, we speak with Sterling Freeman, an HR recruiter and advocate for diversity and inclusion. They discuss Sterling's journey from competitive gymnastics to becoming a recruiter, his work in HR, and his commitment to promoting LGBTQ+ excellence in professional environments. Sterling shares insights on creating inclusive workplaces, overcoming challenges faced by LGBTQ+ professionals in the job market, and the importance of communication and resilience. The episode emphasizes the value of networking, advocating for oneself, and leveraging unique perspectives to succeed in the recruitment process.About Sterling: Sterling Freeman grew up in Lake Tahoe, NV, where he grew up doing competitive gymnastics and competitive dance. He attended Chapman University in Southern California as a first-generation college student, majoring in Business Administration with a minor in Leadership studies. During his time in college, he worked with a company that one of his professors owned called “Leadership Inspirations” as Leadership Development Specialist, which kicked off his interest and passion in the HR space and his desire to help encourage and develop people personally and professionally. After graduation, he ventured into the field of admissions, then into sales, and he currently works in recruitment, where he’s specialized in working with HR professionals across a variety of levels and industries. In his role, he is an expert in all things HR and, consulting both candidates and clients on best practices, market trends, and information and helping make placements that are long-lasting and mutually beneficial. More than anything, he enjoys working with and helping people and is always excited for the opportunity to network and meet new people!Connect with Sterling: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sterlingfreeman/  This show is presented by The Queer Consulting Network https://www.queerconsulting.org/ and Produced by Rainbow Creative with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Nathan Wheatley as EditorQueer Consulting Network envisions a world where LGBTQ+ individuals are empowered to create thriving communities, build essential skills, and gain confidence through networking events and connections with relevant companies and people. We strive towards a future where everyone in our community feels safe, secure, accepted, and valued for who they are. Learn more at: https://www.queerconsulting.org/ 00:00 Introduction to the LGBTQ+ Excellent Podcast00:37 Meet Sterling Freeman: From Gymnastics to HR02:06 Defining LGBTQ+ Excellence03:07 Sterling's Journey into HR Recruitment05:00 Prioritizing Diversity and Inclusion in Recruitment06:45 Challenges Faced by LGBTQ+ Candidates09:53 Supporting LGBTQ+ Candidates in the Hiring Process12:27 Leveraging Unique Perspectives for Success14:29 Crucial Skills for Consultants17:11 Creating Inclusive Work Environments19:31 Personal Reflections and Recommendations25:41 Conclusion and Key Takeaways