While 83% of the LGBTQIA+ respondents in the recent “Shine the Light” study from Be The Transformational Change (BTTC) Fund said they’re open about their identity with all or most of their coworkers, those who haven’t yet come out expressed concerns about career advancement (38%) and discrimination (23%).
Based on a survey of 580 LGBTQIA+ individuals, the study highlights the workplace experiences and perspectives of the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as how leaders can address barriers and improve employee support.
The results of the survey suggest a growing trend toward workplace inclusivity, with 77% of respondents reporting that their employer offers an LGBTQIA+ employee resource group (ERG). And 70% identified at least two standard gender-affirming health benefits offered by their workplace, the most common being hormone therapy (73%), top surgery (58%), and bottom surgery (51%).
However, there’s still work to be done:
- Just 54% of LGBTQIA+ respondents said they feel comfortable dressing and expressing their gender identity at work.
- Only 22% of survey participants would strongly agree that they’ve witnessed positive support for LGBTQIA+ employees.
- Nearly half (48%) have experienced workplace discrimination, and only 23% felt very confident approaching leadership about discriminatory experiences.
- Just 19% strongly agreed that gender-affirming health care benefits are increasing.
- Only 18% strongly agreed that their employer offers training to address LGBTQIA+ workplace discrimination.
So what can staffing agencies do to promote positive work experiences for the LGBTQIA+ community? Here are few recommendations based on BTTC’s report:
- Educate clients on the importance of inclusive policies and ERGs.
- Advocate for gender-neutral dress codes and comprehensive anti-discrimination policies.
- Promote the implementation of LGBTQIA+ inclusive workplace training programs.
- Encourage clients to offer and highlight gender-affirming health benefits.
- Assist job seekers with resources like salary negotiation training and LGBTQIA+ career fairs.
By understanding and acting on these insights, staffing agencies can play a crucial role in fostering more inclusive workplaces and better supporting LGBTQIA+ job seekers and employees.
