Inclusive workplaces have become increasingly important in recent years, with businesses seeing the benefits of having a diverse workforce. A crucial aspect of this inclusivity is the treatment of LGBT+ employees and their ability to express themselves at work. In this article, we will explore the significance of LGBT+ inclusion in the workplace, discussing the struggles that LGBT+ employees face when expressing their identity at work, and the importance of encouraging openness.
Deloitte conducted a global survey among over 5,000 respondents to gauge attitudes towards LGBT+ inclusion in the workplace. The results revealed that a significant proportion of employees attach a high level of importance to being able to freely express their sexual orientation (60%) and gender identity (75%) at work.
The Discomfort of Coming Out
Many LGBT+ employees feel uncomfortable disclosing their identity at work due to several reasons. Firstly, they fear discrimination or negative treatment. Secondly, they worry that their disclosure will negatively affect their career progression. Thirdly, they may be uncomfortable discussing personal areas of their life with colleagues whom they are not close to. Fourthly, some may not feel entirely at ease with their LGBT+ identity and may opt not to discuss it openly.
Comfort Levels and Seniority
Importantly, the level of comfort around coming out increases with seniority. Junior employees are often less comfortable discussing their LGBT+ status at work. For example, only 37% of junior employees feel comfortable sharing their sexual orientation, and only 46% feel comfortable being out with their gender identity. As employees progress to more senior positions, their comfort levels rise.
Being open with management and HR
It is crucial for employers to foster a culture of inclusivity to ensure that employees feel comfortable being open about their identity. However, a significant proportion of employees indicated that they would not feel comfortable disclosing their LGBT+ status to their direct manager or HR. Only 37% feel comfortable sharing their sexual orientation with their direct manager, and only 34% feel comfortable talking to HR.
Looking for more LGBT+ inclusive employers
The report also found that one in three of all respondents is actively looking to change employers to find an organization that is more LGBT+ inclusive. This is significant as employers who prioritize inclusivity can have an edge in their search for talent.
The Advantages of Inclusivity
Research has shown that businesses that prioritize inclusivity see a range of benefits. Firstly, inclusive workplaces have been found to be more productive, with more diverse perspectives leading to improved decision-making processes. Secondly, businesses that prioritize inclusivity often have improved employee retention, as employees feel more valued and supported. Thirdly, inclusive businesses often achieve better financial results.
Demonstrating commitment
To ensure that organizations do not fall short of employee expectations, it is crucial for employers to clearly demonstrate their commitment to LGBT+ inclusion. This can include active involvement in LGBT+ initiatives, creating policies and guidelines to promote inclusivity, and offering training to staff to create a more welcoming and supportive workplace for LGBT+ colleagues.
Conversation about LGBT+ Inclusion
A crucial aspect of promoting LGBT+ inclusivity in the workplace is to have conversations around these topics. To achieve this, managers and leaders should understand how to have an open dialogue around LGBT+ inclusion. This can include providing training on LGBT+ issues, offering support to employees who may be struggling with their identity, and creating a culture where LGBT+ employees feel valued and respected.
Overall, LGBT+ inclusivity is an essential aspect of modern workplaces. The discomfort experienced by many LGBT+ employees when expressing their identity highlights the need for employers to do more to create an inclusive and supportive culture. By fostering inclusivity, organizations can create a more productive, supportive, and successful workplace. Encouraging conversations around LGBT+ inclusivity can help employers ensure that they are meeting the expectations of their employees and creating a culture where everyone feels respected and valued.