This is part of a series of stories we’re sharing about independent workers. Since June is Pride Month, we’re recognizing members of the LGBTQIA+ community and bringing to light the unique stories and challenges they face. We spoke with Chad Hooper, a leadership consultant, to learn more about his experience as an LGBTQIA+ independent worker.

Hi, Chad! Tell us about yourself and what kind of self-employed work you do.

I founded CPM Leadership Consultants in 2020 after years of doing consulting for free for nonprofits. I help values-oriented teams develop internal processes and cultures that are conducive to achieving organizational missions. My goal is to be a resource and provide support, while also connecting values and drive with practical solutions and sustainable outcomes. I’ve brought this skill to small community projects like mutual aid programs, and also large national projects like the White House Domestic Policy Council’s racial and social justice initiatives under Ambassador Susan Rice.  

I’m also the Executive Director of the Professional Managers Association, which is a national membership association advocating on behalf of leaders in the federal government. I work with agencies and Congress to promote good governance and enhance leadership throughout the Civil Service. In addition, I’m a Lifetime Member of Federally Employed Women, a professional organization working for the advancement and professional growth of people of marginalized genders in federal service, while also working to end sex and gender discrimination.

Were there any unique challenges you faced in starting your business because you were a member of the LGBTQIA+ community?

I work very hard to keep as much of my negotiations in email as possible. It’s not in my control, but my voice reveals that I’m part of the LGBTQIA+ community. I’ve noticed a trend that a potential client or event sponsor will decline to work with us if I speak to someone through an audio-only or video call.

How about the other side of the coin: Were there any advantages that being a member of the LGBTQIA+ community provided in starting your own business?

As a leadership consultant, I bring valuable, lived-experiences to each of my clients. I can help them understand why we need to evolve their company’s culture and/or policies and provide a space free from judgement as I coach them to become more aware of how they may be affecting their staff.

What advice would you give to fellow LGBTQIA+ independent workers?

We have a place in business and should not feel relegated to historically queer or queer-accepting industries. I never imagined that I would be an authority in corporate boardrooms. You can do that without covering or suppressing parts of your identity.

Thank you for sharing your story and advice with the rest of the Stride community, Chad! You can learn more about Chad’s work through his LinkedIn.