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How to Attract and Support LGBTQ Employees in the Workplace
from EOEJOURNAL JULY 2021
by EOE JOURNAL
by Ryan Howard
In 2018, the Human Rights Campaign reported that nearly 50% of LGBTQ workers remain in the closet at their place of employment. The report revealed that these workers are told to dress more masculine or feminine or have heard others tell offensive jokes about being gay or lesbian. They’re afraid to come out because they don’t feel that they would be supported, they would face discrimination and it would ruin relationships with their co-workers. These fears lead to feelings of depression, exhaustion or the inability to focus on their jobs. While there is legislation to protect LGTBQ employees, employers can create a more inclusive workplace through leadership and recruitment.
Here are best practices and examples of how to support LGBTQ employees in the workplace.
Recruitment & Talent Acquisition
Part of building a more inclusive workplace is hiring more diverse employees. Businesses can start building a welcoming reputation through their corporate mission statements, company values and through the images and language used on their digital platforms, such as their website and social media. An employer that actively supports LGBTQ causes, partners with LGBTQ organizations or recruits from LGBTQ-specific job sites will undoubtedly appeal to a more diverse group of candidates.
Examples of Corporate Equality Application & Screening
For examples of nondiscrimination policies, benefits, inclusion training and metrics, public commitment and social responsibility, download the report here. An employer’s onboarding process will also reveal if they are
Every year, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) publishes truly inclusive to the LGBTQ community. The application and the Corporate Equality Index of businesses that have instituted other hiring paperwork should allow gender choices beyond “corporate policies and practices pertinent to lesbian, gay, “male” and “female” to include “other” and perhaps “nonbisexual, transgender and queer employees.” The businesses binary”. When running a background check, it’s important are rated and given the distinction of “Best Places to Work for to gather as much information as possible to verify that the LGBTQ Equality.” The rating includes criteria based on: screening report is accurate. If the candidate has transitioned, — Non-discrimination policies across business entities for example, it is necessary to obtain all identifying informa— Equitable benefits for LGBTQ workers and their families tion to get a comprehensive report. The candidate should — Tosoh supplies manufacturers worldwide with the materials they need to Supporting an inclusive culture and corporate social responsibility also be able to signify how they currently identify and which pronouns they prefer. Continued on page 10 Tosoh supplies manufacturers worldwide with the materials they need to produce the things that make modern life all that it is and everything it produce the things that make modern life all that it is and everything it can be.Tosoh supplies manufacturers worldwide with the materials they need to produce the can be. We’re hiring in the USA. things that make modern life all that it is and everything it can be.
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Are you passionate about expanding your impact on diversity, equity and inclusion in nursing?
Reaffirming our commitment to preparing a diverse, culturally humble nursing workforce, the University of Cincinnati (UC) College of Nursing has established the Greer Glazer Endowed Chair in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, one of the first endowed nursing chairs with such focus.
This is a rare opportunity to direct diversity and inclusion efforts, conduct research in the area and impact the nursing profession and community by leading students, faculty, staff and alumni.
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Benefits Packages & Inclusive Policies
Unfortunately, many LGBTQ people do not have access to healthcare or are afraid to seek care due to their LGBTQ status. Many have faced unemployment or homelessness due to being rejected by their families, have faced prejudice from health care staff or inexperienced staff who were unable to provide care. LGBTQ-inclusive employers can offer benefits packages to include: — Health and life insurance with same-sex partner benefits — Medical benefits to support the needs of transgender employees — Paid family leave (as opposed to just maternity leave)
Employers can also promote inclusive policies to protect those who are out at work such as: — Support and ease when changing their identifier or pronouns — A way to report discrimination, pay discrepancies, workplace and sexual harassment — Gender neutral restrooms — Reasonable dress codes not based on gender stereotypes — Advocacy groups for closeted employees so they feel safe when they’re ready to come out
LGBTQ-inclusive employers can offer benefits packages to include: • Health and life insurance with samesex partner benefits • Paid family leave (as opposed to just maternity leave)
Training & Leadership
Management and supervisors can establish and be trained in nondiscrimination and inclusive policies. These policies would include accountability and corporate commitment to cultural diversity so that leadership and fellow employees understand how to support LGBTQ co-workers. This training would be ongoing and part of the company culture of the organization, including mandatory instruction for new hires. Leadership can identify champions and allies to act as management support for those who are afraid to admit their orientation.
Those that identify as LGBTQ have sought equal representation since the 50’s and 60’s culminating in the Stonewall Riots in June 1969. June is now considered “Pride” month and highlights the continued progress in the LGBTQ movement. Employers can recognize Pride month or National Coming Out day (October 11) to support those workers who may be struggling with acceptance in the workplace.
There are hundreds of enterprise organizations and small businesses that are leading the charge in workplace diversity. To learn more about companies that support LGBTQ equality in the workplace, read this post on Glassdoor.
