Joining the New Mexico OUT Business Alliance (NMOBA) can provide several benefits for businesses looking to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ customers and employees. Here are some of the benefits of joining NMOBA:

1. Educational opportunities: NMOBA provides educational resources and networking opportunities for LGBTQ+ and allied members. This can help businesses learn more about how to create a more inclusive workplace and better serve LGBTQ+ customers.

2. Access to certification: NMOBA actively supports certified LGBTBE (LGBT Business Enterprise). Certification can help businesses gain access to corporate partners, education, accelerator programs, and more[3]. It can also help businesses attract the best talent and improve their success[2].

3. Networking opportunities: As a member of NMOBA, businesses will have access to networking opportunities with other LGBTQ+ and allied members. This can help businesses build relationships with other businesses and organizations that share their values.

4. Safe and inclusive practices: By joining NMOBA, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ customers and employees[1]. This can help businesses attract and retain customers and employees who value diversity and inclusion.

According to a report by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, companies embrace LGBTQ+ inclusion to attract the best talent, allowing them to better engage and retain LGBTQ+ employees and cultivate strong relationships with stakeholders[1]. This study builds on previous work by examining lingering questions regarding the mechanics of how businesses develop and evaluate their LGBTQ+ inclusive practices[1]. Additionally, an LGBTQ+ inclusive workplace extends beyond making sure employees of all sexualities and gender expressions feel safe and valid, as it can lead to business success[4].

To make businesses more LGBTQ+ inclusive, they can consider implementing LGBTQ+ friendly Google My Business practices. Some ways to do this include adding LGBTQ+ friendly language to their business description, using gender-neutral language, displaying the LGBTQ+ pride flag, and providing training to staff on how to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ customers[2].

In conclusion, by joining NMOBA and implementing LGBTQ+ friendly practices can help businesses create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ customers and employees, attract and retain the best talent, and improve their overall success.

Citations:

[1] https://www.uschamberfoundation.org/reports/better-business-benefits-lgbtq-inclusion-workplace

[2] https://guides.loc.gov/lgbtq-business/external-websites

[3] https://www.mbaandbeyond.com/blog/lgbt-mba

[4] https://inclusiveleadersgroup.com/lgbtq-inclusion-a-guide-for-hr/

[5] https://poetsandquants.com/2023/06/28/promoting-equality-and-inclusivity-lgbtq-initiatives-at-business-schools/

[6] https://careercenter.bauer.uh.edu/lgbtq-resources/