How to Create an LGBTQ+ Inclusive Workplace

Inclusive workplaces greatly improve the mental health and overall well-being of all employees. By reducing the fear of being judged or discriminated against, you allow people to bring their whole selves to work without the need to hide or suppress their identities. This leads to higher levels of job satisfaction, trust among colleagues, and increased productivity. By creating an inclusive environment, companies demonstrate a commitment to diversity and respect for individual differences.

This not only helps attract and retain top talent from the LGBTQ+ community but also promotes collaborative and innovative work cultures where everyone feels comfortable and can contribute their best. Lauren Pfleghar, Talent Acquisition Consultant at RX Global, shares a few things that every organization should do as they strive for inclusion and acceptance for everyone.

• Provide sensitivity and anti-bias training to managers and employees alike.
• Publish their commitment to nondiscriminatory employment practices on their website, social media accounts and in all employment advertising.
• Promote a culture that supports psychological safety and provide training to all people managers.
• Create employee resource groups that welcome members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies alike.
• Create a culture that sees individual differences as adding value to the organization and encourages employees to be their authentic selves.
• Clearly communicate in the employee handbook and training programs that discrimination, harassment or other hostile behavior toward the LGBTQ+ community will not be tolerated.
• Create an open line of communication so employees can report any incidents of hostility or harassment.
• Partner with LGBTQ+ organizations and welcome them on campus to educate employees and promote opportunities for their members to join the organization.
• Seek guidance from LGBTQ+ organizations on how they may improve their current programs and become more attractive to LGBTQ+ individuals.

Lauren Pfleghar, Talent Acquisition Consultant at RX Global