Would you believe that in 2020, there are about 46% of LGBTQ workers who are closeted in the workplace? While work is for work, you definitely want to create an inclusive space where everyone looks forward to coming to work and contributing every day.
Not to mention that is going to be great for the bottom line and productivity of your workplace too.
This guide is brought to you by one of the leaders in LGBTQ Inclusive Workplace Training.
Here are some simple things you can do to make your department or company more comfortable, safe and inclusive.
It's best to not walk on eggshells! If you make an honest mistake about someone's sexuality or your "gaydar" is just malfunctioning, that's ok. A quick apology and ask what something means and a sincere attempt to ensure the person is comfortable is all you have to do. After all, your employee perhaps has to face mistakes and assumptions all the time.
Showing that you care about the community is a great idea. Sponsor a cause or just show up in the local pride events.
Try to use gender neutral words in normal workplace parlance. From unisex toilets, to using "partner" instead of husband and wife, is a great start.
In your employment ads, its always a good idea to say you welcome LGBTQ+ employees and your company is against discrimination.
To support an inclusive workplace, training your staff on diversity and inclusion is extremely important and besides making everyone aware and more welcoming, can help to stave off potential legal issues.
The best way to have a welcoming environment is to make sure benefits are applied equally to all employees. Whether based on sex, gender, marital status - if everyone has access to all the benefits the company offers, it's a big reason why someone would want to work with your company.
Finally, being neutral means no special treatment, either for or against any class of employees. Nothing says you are fair more than being actually fair.