Eight out of 10 Gen Z job seekers reject companies that withdraw support for LGBTQ+ community, reveals research

New research from myGwork reveals that 80% of LGBTQ+ Gen Zers are hesitant to work for companies that have recently withdrawn support for the LGBTQ+ community.

In a talent landscape where nearly a third of students and recent graduates identify as LGBTQ+, employers aiming to attract and retain top talent must prioritise authentic, consistent support for diversity and inclusion. The report also highlights that only 5% of LGBTQ+ graduates feel that companies are doing enough to foster an inclusive environment, compared to 14% of their non-LGBTQ+ peers. This serves as a clear signal that companies need to go beyond lip service and demonstrate genuine, visible support for LGBTQ+ inclusivity.

Gen Z places high value on authenticity and representation, with 80% of LGBTQ+ respondents stating they are more likely to accept a job if the organisation’s leadership includes visible LGBTQ+ allies and role models. Companies that lack this representation risk losing access to a significant pool of Gen Z talent, particularly from values-driven candidates.

“Authenticity isn’t optional for Gen Z,” said Adrien and Pierre Gaubert, co-founders of myGwork. “Companies serious about inclusion must show it through actions and leadership, not just policies.”

Despite progress, discrimination continues to be a concern. According to myGwork’s survey, 48% of LGBTQ+ students and recent graduates have witnessed discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, compared to 32% of their non-LGBTQ+ peers. Additionally, over one-third of LGBTQ+ respondents reported experiencing discrimination firsthand, underscoring the need for proactive measures against homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia. Click here to download the full report.

To bridge the gap between inclusive employers and diverse LGBTQ+ talent, myGwork is hosting its annual WorkFair on 13 November 2024. This virtual global career fair will connect LGBTQ+ job seekers with top employers committed to inclusion.

With over 70% of LGBTQ+ Gen Z students and graduates emphasising the importance of being able to authentically express themselves at work, WorkFair offers a direct link to hundreds of job opportunities, career-enhancing workshops, and panels led by inspiring role models. Participants will also have the opportunity to engage directly with talent scouts from some of the world’s most inclusive employers, including Pfizer, Sony Pictures, Warner Bros. Discovery, Booking.com, JPMorgan Chase, AstraZeneca, GSK, Clifford Chance, LexisNexis, Yugo, and many others.

“WorkFair 2024 is an incredible opportunity for LGBTQ+ students, recent graduates, and allies to apply for roles with inclusive employers, enabling them to be their true selves at work,” added Adrien and Pierre Gaubert. “In addition to real-time job opportunities, the event provides essential career advice and guidance for success in their chosen fields.”

In today’s competitive talent landscape, creating a truly inclusive workplace is not only a moral responsibility but also a strategic advantage. WorkFair 2024 is free for LGBTQ+ students, recent graduates, and allies. Click here to register for FREE.