June 19, 2023

4 Ways For Employers to Be More LGBTQ+ Inclusive

Hands cup around some letter blocks with colored wooden chess pawns on top of them, the blocks spell out "inclusion"

4 WAYS FOR EMPLOYERS TO BE MORE LGBTQ+ INCLUSIVE

LGBTQ+ workplace policies are essential for protecting the rights, well-being, and dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals. They contribute to a more inclusive work environment, attract diverse talent, enhance productivity, and demonstrate an organization’s commitment to equality and social responsibility. As pride month continues during the month of June, employers may wonder about effective ways to authentically and effectively cater to their diverse workforce. Below are 4 ways that employers can strive to be more inclusive in a corporate setting.

  1. Implement LGBTQ+ inclusive policies: Although the obvious, implementing LGBTQ+ inclusive policies is the most important way that businesses can be inclusive to the community. Employers should establish and enforce policies that explicitly prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression. These policies should cover all aspects of employment, including hiring, promotions, benefits, and work conditions.Workplace policies that explicitly prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression send a clear message that all employees, regardless of their LGBTQ+ status, should be treated fairly and equally. By establishing a framework of equality, these policies help create an inclusive work environment where LGBTQ+ individuals feel safe, respected, and valued.
  1. Provide comprehensive diversity training: Employers can offer mandatory diversity training programs that educate employees on LGBTQ+ issues, including terminology, respectful language, and cultural sensitivity. These trainings can promote a more inclusive and accepting work environment for everyone.
  1. Foster an inclusive corporate culture: Working hand in hand with the implemented policies, employers can demonstrate a corporate social responsibility to promote social justice and equality within their organization. By implementing an inclusive corporate culture, companies show their commitment to upholding human rights and combating discrimination. This commitment can extend beyond the workplace, as these efforts contribute to creating more inclusive communities and advancing societal acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals. This can be done through internal communications, diversity committees, employee resource groups, and supporting LGBTQ+-focused initiatives within the community.
  1. Ask questions: Without being invasive, employers should communicate transparently with all their employees in order to appropriately evaluate ways in which the workplace environment should improve to make all employees feel comfortable. LGBTQ+ employees who experience discrimination or feel the need to hide their identities may suffer from increased stress, anxiety, and depression. Having workplace conversations that aim to protect against such mistreatment helps foster a supportive environment where individuals can be their authentic selves without fear of repercussions. This can take the form of a survey, one-on-one interviews, or a standard meeting.

It is important to remember that these suggestions are general and may need to be tailored to the specific needs and context of the workplace. Consulting with LGBTQ+ organizations, experts and additional resources can also provide valuable insights and guidance on creating a more inclusive environment.