Randstad’s latest Workmonitor Pulse Survey shines a light on the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ people in the workplace. Despite progress to foster more inclusive workplaces over recent decades, 41% of LGBTQ+ workers say they have faced discrimination or prejudice at work, and a third (33%) believe that their sexuality or gender identity has negatively affected their career, remuneration, or progression (35%).
The survey finds that lack of inclusion and acceptance has had a major impact on LGBTQ+ workers and their overall career potential. More than a third (36%) report that they have been less motivated or productive at work as they cannot be themselves, while the same proportion (36%) choose to work remotely because the office does not feel like an inclusive space for them.
Worries over discrimination have led more than a third to quit their jobs (29%) or pursue alternate career paths (32%), showing the link between non-inclusive workplaces and retention.
Discrimination at work is a reality for many, though improvements have been made in recent years. Two in five (41%) LGBTQ+ workers say they face less discrimination now than they did in 2019, and more than half (51%) say their employer has taken meaningful action to create an equitable workplace.
Three in five (58%) workers believe that the overall responsibility for fostering an inclusive environment lies with their employer and nearly half (48%) say they value allyship and support from their employer more now than before. Younger workers are leading the way, with 45% of Gen Z employees more concerned about the impact of discrimination on career progression than baby boomers (29%).
More than half (57%) of LGBTQ+ workers believe organizations should take a stance on LGBTQ+ issues internally and make positive changes. Additional research finds that while 41% of LGBTQ+ workers say their employer engages with Pride month, more than a third (39%) consider their employer’s contribution to be tokenistic.
Randstad recommends three tangible ways employers can create an environment of inclusivity for LGBTQ+ workers, including the following.
- Empower employee-driven groups. Ensure that all initiatives are grounded in the real experiences of employees. This leads to informed, targeted business actions that support inclusivity.
- Instill a culture of respect and empathy. Recognize and respect the diverse range of experiences that LGBTQ+ workers bring, rather than perceiving them as “others” or defining them solely by their gender or sexuality.
- Be authentic allies throughout the year. While Pride offers an opportunity for businesses to reflect on inclusivity efforts, this awareness should occur throughout the year.
