The 2024 EY US LGBTQ+ Workplace Barometer has revealed critical insights into workplace inclusivity, earning a tepid C+ grade from Generation Z. This reflects a disconnect between Gen Z’s inclusivity expectations and employers’ current practices. Furthermore, Gen Z workers are three times more likely to question their employers’ commitment to LGBTQ+ friendly policies compared to other age groups.
This skepticism has tangible repercussions. Only 38% of employees who find their workplace lacking in inclusivity foresee themselves staying for over a year. Conversely, those content with their company’s diversity efforts are significantly more inclined to remain. This trend highlights the vital link between a company’s inclusivity initiatives and its ability to retain talent. Businesses must, therefore, acknowledge and act upon these insights to foster a truly welcoming environment for all employees.
Striving for an Inclusive Culture
EY’s study underscores that businesses should seriously consider Gen Z’s perspectives on workplace inclusivity. Leaders Mitch Berlin and Leslie Patterson emphasize the vital need for a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion to not only attract and keep top talent but also to garner employee trust and secure a competitive edge in the job market.
The report proposes specific actions to enhance LGBTQ+ inclusion, like forming LGBTQ+ Business Resource Groups, initiating mentorship for LGBTQ+ staff, providing inclusive leadership training, and fostering a widespread allyship culture in the workplace. This response to Gen Z’s call for genuine LGBTQ+ inclusion is critical. Companies can only fully engage their employees and create a universally supportive work environment by executing such definitive measures.