How to make sure your workplace is LGBT+ inclusive

Diversity surrounds us every day.

We can see diversity everywhere: in life experience, education, cultural background, gender and sexual identity. In the workplace, celebrating diversity means acknowledging the many identities that make an employee unique. To accept these unique identities, we first have to understand them. Understanding is a key step in creating an inclusive environment where employees feel acknowledged and valued.

A good place to start is conversation. When it comes to the LGBT community in particular, begin by having educational conversations about the many challenges the community faces. The conversation can educate other employees about negative stereotypes and discrimination, including prejudices against gay and transgender individuals.

Although conversations like this take extra time and effort, they have real business benefits. Inclusive companies recognize the importance of attracting and retaining diverse talent in order to truly reflect the needs of a diverse marketplace. It isn’t just about good corporate citizenship, it’s about being more effective in serving customers, and the proof of this is in the numbers.

1. Make sure your policies are LGBT+ inclusive

Go over pensions, parental leave, health insurance and relocation allowances, and make sure all these specifically mention LGBT+ people.

2. Create an LGBT+ network and make it desirable to be a part of

Set up a group specifically for LGBT+ employees, for networking and for guiding your company on being inclusive. Commend employee involvement in these groups, include it on their appraisals.

3. Engage with straight employees as well

LGBT+ allies can help spread the message of inclusion.

4. Make sure senior leaders articulate their support

Having senior members of staff communicate their support of LGBT+ employees sends a strong and reassuring message.

5. Communicate with your employees

Maintain lines of communication with both straight and LGBT+ employees, celebrate your successes, and make sure your strategy is appropriate and effective.

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