What ACTUALLY Makes for an Inclusive Workplace?

#Inclusivity #WorkLife

What really makes for an inclusive workplace?

We all deserve to feel valued and accepted at work regardless of our gender identity or sexual orientation.

Research shows that employees at inclusive workplaces are 28 percent more engaged at work and typically intend to stay with their company for three times longer than they would otherwise.

Each year, Stonewall uses the Workplace Equality Index to compile a list of the top 100 employers for LGBTQ+ inclusion in the workplace.

It takes lots of factors into account, including a company’s policies and benefits, feedback from staff and how senior leaders promote an LGBTQ+-inclusive culture.

But what else helps make a workplace inclusive?

First, gender-neutral language.

The language we use is one of the keys to creating an environment where everybody feels welcomed and included.

Gender-neutral language should be in place across the whole company, for example in application forms, presentations and style guides.

Second, celebrations of LGBTQ+ events and history.

While inclusion should be a priority all year round, it’s also a must to celebrate the likes of Pride, LGBTQ+ History Month and Trans Day of Visibility.

Not only can these milestones be used as learning opportunities for staff, but they also help engage and encourage colleagues to feel comfortable bringing their full selves to work.

And finally, accountability.

Introducing inclusive workplace policies is a good start but it really only matters if you make sure you’re always doing the best you can.

Companies should regularly review and evaluate their inclusion strategies and give employees lots of chances to have their say.

What do you think an inclusive workplace looks like?