According to the National Transgender Discrimination Survey, 90 percent of the transgender population has experienced some form of workplace harassment, and nearly half of the LGBT population conceals their sexual orientation at work for fear of their work environment becoming unwelcoming.
Research says LGBT employees who can openly express themselves in front of their coworkers are more likely to stay in their current position than those who cannot. As a result, more effective implementation of diversity and inclusion policies would save significant amounts of money spent on new talent recruitment and training, among other things. Furthermore, a more diverse and open workplace will foster creativity, resulting in innovation and new ideas. Finally, the expected benefits of diversity policies will increase demand for the company’s stock.
People expect businesses to be much more open to the idea and understanding of the LGBTQ community as the world becomes more accepting and understanding. Companies that work to create a more acceptable and tolerant environment will gain the respect and loyalty of their employees and the general public. While there is still much work to be done, a growing number of businesses recognize that equality is good for business.
The opportunities for any business that wants to promote diversity are limitless, but change does not happen overnight.
Taking steps toward an inclusive workplace and measuring the results sends the message that a company wants to move forward, that it wants to include the LGBT community, and that it is serious about diversity. That will be a huge step forward for anyone, regardless of sexual orientation, and it might just be the sign that someone feels comfortable coming out and going home to their Texas Apartment with a happy heart knowing that they are accepted and loved.