It's OK Not To Self-ID on LinkedIn, but Here Is Why You Should

I’m a leader, a computer programmer, a woman, an athlete, Black, a business strategist, LGBT, and so much more. But sharing any aspects of my identity whether it’s in a form or in conversations with colleagues and friends is a very personal decision and one that I safeguard very carefully. While some demographic traits can be more quickly deduced like my perceived race and gender others require that I make a conscious effort to self-identify. Whether it's during a college application, applying for a loan or completing the U.S. Census, there’s always some hesitation in the back of my mind to answer questions about certain elements of my identity. 

Over the past year, I’ve had various circumstances where I’ve been asked to provide my demographic information. Out of three instances that come to mind, I opted not to share my demographic data on one of those occasions. And the reason I decided not to provide my personal information in that instance was because I’m always mindful of sharing my demographic data. I first need to understand the when, where, how and why I’m being asked to provide that information and most importantly, I need to know that my data will be treated safely and used for the greater good. 

Nevertheless, the times I decided to share details about my personal background, I did so because I truly believed that by sharing part of my identity it would impact me and others in a positive way. This was the case when I decided to Self-ID on LinkedIn. I’ll admit the decision was probably easier for me than for most people, not only because I work at LinkedIn, but because I’m leading this work. I’m fortunate to have the unique advantage of understanding the power that sharing my identity data has in helping LinkedIn make the platform a more equitable place for everyone and combat unfair bias. I also feel safe doing so because I know the information is secure, private to me and I can remove it easily, if I later change my mind.

I want to be crystal clear that it’s your choice to Self-ID on LinkedIn and it’s OK not to, but let me give you three reasons why I think you should: 

1. Identification is the First Step in Representation: When we share any part of our identity, those aspects visible and invisible, it’s a statement that who we are matters. It’s a moment of pride, it is a moment of claiming our space, it is a moment of asserting our belonging. While self-identifying on LinkedIn, across nine categories, will never holistically portray who we are because our identity involves an infinite number of dimensions, it's an important step to being represented, to ensure that all of our voices are heard and all of our experiences acknowledged. 
2. It Can Help Root Out Unfair Bias: Identifying, understanding and measuring unfair bias is a prerequisite if we ever hope to mitigate it. Self-ID is a critical step in our efforts  to understand the unique experiences that certain groups, especially those from underrepresented communities, have on LinkedIn. This will help drive more equitable outcomes for all members regardless of their background. 
3. Building a Stronger, More Inclusive Community: When taking any action, it is human nature to think what’s in it for me. When we self-identify, it is not only about “me” but the collective “we”. By making the conscious effort to provide demographic data, we can help create a space that provides everyone with the opportunity to attain the positive outcomes they desire. 

When I shared my Self-ID data, I did it with the understanding that it could help LinkedIn create equal access to opportunity and drive more equitable outcomes for all members, regardless of their demographics. Choosing to Self-ID on LinkedIn is undoubtedly a very personal choice, and for me, it is one I know will deliver a meaningful impact. I feel a sense of responsibility and excitement to help create a better, more equitable professional community. And while some of you will choose not to self-identify, I know that LinkedIn will continue to evolve and help make the world of work a more equitable place, as more people choose to Self-ID. 

I hope you choose to join me on this journey!

Thanks for reading.