Uncloseting LGBTQ+ Workplace Inequalities

How LGBTQ+ Employees Perceive Inclusivity in the Workplace

While companies often advertise their inclusive environments, our study reveals some concerning gaps when it comes to making LGBTQ+ employees feel welcomed and respected.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts promote diverse demographics, equal opportunities, and an inclusive environment at work to create a sense of belonging and empowerment for employees. These efforts have positive business impacts like improving employee retention, helping workers reach their full potential, and increasing company profits. Still, we found some possible areas for improvement when it comes to workplace equality for LGBTQ+ people.

While many workplaces strive for inclusivity, the reality for some LGBTQ+ employees paints a different picture. Even though 82% of LGBTQ+ Americans said their workplace is inclusive and diverse, and 39% said it’s very inclusive, nearly 1 in 5 (18%) indicated their workplace lacks inclusivity and diversity. Another 16% of LGBTQ+ Americans expressed dissatisfaction with their company’s culture, contrasting with the 70% who reported being satisfied.

Discrimination and Harassment: Unacceptable Realities for LGBTQ+ Workers

Despite efforts toward equality in the workplace, our data shows that some LGBTQ+ staff continue to face discrimination and mistreatment.

Over 1 in 5 LGBTQ+ individuals (22%) have faced pay disparity based on their sexual orientation or gender identity — the most commonly reported type of workplace discrimination we found. However, 16% of LGBTQ+ employees have experienced some type of workplace discrimination in the past year. More than 1 in 10 (11%) have even endured sexual harassment at work during that period.

This unacceptable treatment can be met with robust anti-discrimination policies and unconscious bias training and by cultivating a genuinely inclusive environment from the top down. These changes come at a cost, but smart companies can get a fast business loan to fund the investments needed to build a workplace where LGBTQ+ staff feel equal and welcome.

Companies’ Efforts to Support the LGBTQ+ Community

For companies that say they stand with the LGBTQ+ community, the proof is in the actions they take to show their support and allyship. Here’s how often that rings true and some tips for businesses looking to promote equality in their workplaces by celebrating Pride.

A substantial 44% of LGBTQ+ employees reported that their companies don’t recognize or support Pride month in any way. For those whose employers do celebrate Pride, the top methods included:

• Internal awareness and education events (44%)
• Participating in Pride events (42%)
• Having and promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion and diversity HR policies (38%)

In addition to having DEI policies and initiatives, just recognizing Pride month at work can go a long way. Most LGBTQ+ employees (67%) said doing this increases societal acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community. Footing the bill for some Pride-themed workplace decor this June may not be as important as investing in company-wide, year-long DEI initiatives to make everyone feel welcome and appreciated, but it couldn’t hurt.

Committing to Real Change in LGBTQ+ Workplace Equality

All LGBTQ+ employees still haven’t reached the top of that uphill battle for feeling comfortable, supported, and valued in their workplaces. From experiencing discrimination to receiving unequal pay and treatment, it’s clear that more can be done. While companies have made strides in promoting inclusivity through efforts like celebrating Pride, greater change is still needed in some workplaces. Fostering an open-minded culture and providing comprehensive DEI training is key to empowering LGBTQ+ staff to bring their full, authentic selves to the office.

Methodology

We surveyed 1,001 employed LGBTQ+ Americans to explore their experiences and challenges in the workplace. For industry breakdowns, we only included industries with 50 or more respondents. Of the respondents, 28% were Gen Z, 56% were millennials, 14% were Gen X, and 3% were baby boomers; percentages don’t total 100 exactly due to rounding.

About Clarify Capital

Clarify Capital helps business owners secure the financing they need to thrive in today’s competitive marketplace. Our tailored financial solutions support entrepreneurial dreams, turning visions into reality. For those looking for flexible funding options, explore our no doc business loans for quick and easy financial solutions.

Fair Use Statement

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