New research shows 63% of LGBTQ+ people have faced discrimination in their career. Despite increased efforts for inclusivity, the data shows employers aren’t working hard enough. With 15% of reported discrimination going unaddressed with HR departments and managers, one in five LGBTQ+ people choose not to report incidents that occur at work.
A survey of 2,000 LGBTQ+ individuals by Edubirdie finds almost half of LGBTQ+ workers feel their company is bad at raising awareness of their struggles. Moreover, sexual orientation and gender identity still hinder career advancement, as 44% of LGBTQ+ workers have had to quit a job due to discrimination or lack of acceptance and 45% have been passed up for promotions.
The consequences of discrimination make nearly half of LGBTQ+ people experience imposter syndrome at work, fearing they might be seen as a “diversity hire.” Nearly half (45%) avoid corporate events due to discomfort while half alter their appearance to blend in.
Commenting on the results, Avery Morgan, productivity expert at Edubirdie, says: “Despite progress in LGBTQ+ human rights, societal stigma persists. Our findings show 70% of LGBTQ+ people feel lonely, misunderstood, marginalized, or excluded at work, and 59% believe their sexual orientation or gender identity has hindered their careers. One of the biggest challenges businesses should be aware of is avoiding tokenism and appearing inauthentic in their actions. Employers must be genuine with their decision to bring a more diverse workforce into the organization.”
The research shows basic acceptance remains elusive, with 30% of LGBTQ+ people concerned they will face discrimination if they come out at work, while one in four fear for their safety. Alarmingly, two in five have had their orientation or identity disclosed without their consent.
“A lot of the politics at work are about being well liked by supervisors and colleagues,” says Dr. Jenna Brownfield, a licensed psychologist specializing in therapy for LGBTQ+ people. “LGBTQ+ people have to weigh the risks of revealing their identify at work, how it might affect their workplace relationships, career advancement, and job security.”
