How to Make Workplaces More LGBTQIA+ Inclusive?
“Inclusion is not bringing people into what already exists; it is making a new space, a better space for everyone.” – George Dei
Inclusion isn’t just about fitting people into pre-existing molds; it’s about transforming environments to welcome and celebrate everyone. For workplaces, this means designing spaces that reflect and support the diverse identities of all employees, creating a foundation for innovation and growth. But why is inclusion, especially LGBTQIA+ inclusion, so important? Imagine a piece of beautiful music, a soothing tune. Such great music thrives on a variety of instruments playing together. Violins add a bright melody, while cellos provide a deep foundation.
Businesses function the same way. When employees from different backgrounds come together, they create a richer and more innovative environment. This includes the LGBTQIA+ community. Including LGBTQIA+ employees thus, is not just the right thing to do, it’s a game-changer for business that leads to success.
The Power of Diversity
In today’s globalized world, diversity is more than a buzzword—it’s a cornerstone of successful, innovative companies. However, despite progress in social awareness, there is a significant gap in LGBTQIA+ inclusion within the workplace.
The Cost of Exclusion
Studies show that LGBTQIA+ employees often experience discrimination and microaggressions. A 2022 report by GLAAD revealed that 40% of LGBTQIA+ employees reported hiding their identity at work, fearing negative consequences. This not only impacts employee well-being but also costs companies through talent loss and reputational damage.
The Business Case for LGBTQIA+ Inclusion
Inclusive workplaces are not just morally right but also foster a thriving, dynamic environment. Companies that champion diversity and inclusion often see higher employee satisfaction, increased creativity, and improved team collaboration. With June being Pride Month, LGBTQIA+ inclusion is often treated as a yearly checkbox activity. However, genuine LGBTQIA+ inclusion should be an ongoing commitment, deeply embedded in the organizational culture and strategy.
Moving Beyond the Tick Box
True inclusion involves year-round efforts to create environments where every individual feels valued and empowered. Now, making workplace environments truly inclusive depends on two factors:
1. Creating positive day-to-day experiences for employees.
2. Building a positive brand perception.
Creating positive day-to-day experiences for employees includes designing spaces for authenticity, belonging, and meaningful work. Building a positive brand perception involves fostering acceptance, camaraderie, and fairness.
Building an LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Expereince
Genuine Spaces for Authenticity
Today’s workforce, particularly the younger generations, prioritizes authenticity in the workplace. A 2023 study by McKinsey & Company found that 70% of millennials want their workplace to be inclusive of LGBTQIA+ employees. They seek genuine spaces that celebrate their individuality without resorting to stereotypes.
Actionable Insights
• Move beyond stereotypical gender-based color schemes and opt for a neutral base with pops of color that reflect a diverse range of cultures and identities. Think calming blues and greens, accentuated with vibrant accent walls.
• Consider incorporating artwork by LGBTQIA+ artists or artworks that inspire equity and inclusion.
• Traditional, assigned desks can feel restrictive. Incorporate a variety of furniture options, from height-adjustable workstations to comfortable lounge areas.
• Offer reservable focus rooms with diverse themes – think minimalist zen gardens or stimulating graffiti art murals – to cater to different work styles and preferences.
• Consider incorporating gender-inclusive restrooms. This may seem like a small detail, but it sends a powerful message of inclusion. Design all-gender restrooms that are spacious, well-maintained, and accessible to everyone.
Communal Spaces to Build a Sense of Belonging
A sense of belonging is crucial for employee well-being and engagement. When LGBTQIA+ employees feel like they belong, they’re 20% more likely to be satisfied with their jobs (2021 study by the Williams Institute) and 17% more likely to stay with their company (2023 study by Mercer).
Actionable Insights
• Collaborative Hubs, Inclusive Gatherings: Design inviting common areas with comfortable seating arrangements that encourage interaction. Think open-plan lounges with soft lighting and a mix of seating options – armchairs for one-on-one conversations, modular sofas for team brainstorming sessions, and high-top tables for casual interactions.
• Visual Representation, Shared Values: Create a “community canvas” where employees can contribute artwork, photos, or inspirational quotes that reflect their backgrounds and interests.
• Flexible Collaboration Spaces: Move beyond the traditional conference room. Design breakout zones with configurable furniture and writable walls to encourage brainstorming and collaboration between diverse teams.
Purposeful Spaces for Meaningful Work
When employees feel their work has a purpose and their contributions are valued, they’re more engaged and invested in the company’s success. This holds for all employees, especially LGBTQIA+ individuals who may have faced challenges in previous workplaces.
Actionable Insights
• Transparency & Openness: Design collaborative areas where leaders and teams can interact easily. Strategically placed glass partitions allow for visual connection while maintaining privacy when needed.
• Technology for Collaboration: Integrate technology that facilitates communication and collaboration across diverse teams. Think high-definition video conferencing systems, cloud-based project management platforms, and interactive whiteboards for real-time brainstorming.
• Personalization & Expression: Create designated “innovation hubs” for active brainstorming. These spaces should encourage project teams to interact with ease and celebrate their accomplishments.
Building a Positive Brand Experience
A positive brand experience starts from within, radiating outward and impacting not just employees, but also attracting top talent and fostering a strong reputation. Here’s how design can play a crucial role in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment:
Acceptance & Acknowledgement
• Inclusive Language & Visual Storytelling: Ensure all branding materials, from company websites to internal communications, use inclusive language and visuals that represent a variety of identities and backgrounds.
Building Camaraderie
• Employee Resource Group (ERG) Hubs: Dedicate a space for diverse employee resource groups (ERGs) to host meetings, social events, support groups, and networking opportunities. This space should be adaptable to accommodate a variety of training and interactive activities.
• Closed Group Discussion & Communal Help Zones: Facilitate safe spaces for open and honest discussions about LGBTQIA+ issues. This could involve creating designated 1-1 discussion spaces, online forums, or hosting regular in-person support groups led by trained facilitators. Ensure these spaces are designed to be resourceful and inclusive for all LGBTQIA+ employees and allies.
Ensuring Fairness
• Diversity & Inclusion Training: Provide ongoing diversity and inclusion training for all employees, including managers and leadership teams. This training should educate employees about LGBTQIA+ identities, challenge unconscious biases, and equip them with skills to create a more inclusive work environment.
• Workplace Policies for LGBTQIA+ Inclusion: Develop and implement comprehensive workplace policies that explicitly prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. These policies should outline clear procedures for reporting harassment and ensuring a safe and respectful work environment.
Zyeta’s Commitment to Inclusion
At Zyeta, we believe that every workplace should be a beacon of inclusivity and equity. Our designs are centered on creating environments that are welcoming, flexible, and supportive of all employees. Through our innovative strategies and human-centric approach, we aim to foster a culture where everyone can thrive.
All in All
Creating an inclusive workplace is not a destination but a continuous journey. By embracing diversity and fostering an environment of acceptance and equity, we pave the way for a more innovative, productive, and harmonious workplace.
At Zyeta, we are committed to designing spaces that reflect these values, ensuring that every employee feels seen, heard, and valued. Join us in making a difference. Let’s design the future together, one inclusive space at a time.
Similar Reads:
LGBTQ+ Inclusion is More Than Celebrating Pride
Why Are Inclusive Workplaces Important to nurture a Diverse Workforce? | Part 1
As both an Architect and Architectural Journalist, he thrives on building unique content, with words and thoughts--as his brick and mortar. A natural-born explorer, he puts no limits on things he's passionate about diving into, be it cuisines, cultures or books. An avid fiction reader and a chronic over-thinker, he still finds enough time to be happy-go-lucky and easy to approach.
