The article was first published on June 7, 2021.

Discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ professionals in their personal lives also extends to the workplace, creating a phenomenon known as the “rainbow glass ceiling” that hinders career progression and potential. According to Kennede Sng, co-host of Singapore-based LGTBTQ+ podcast series The SG Boys, overt homophobia and indirect aggressions at work can lead to identity self-censorship among LGBTQ+ individuals.

In Thailand, LGBTQ+ professionals encounter similar challenges, with barriers such as gender identity restrictions on transcripts affecting job opportunities. Similarly, discrimination and societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ people impact professional advancement in Indonesia and the Philippines as well.

To create a safe and supportive environment for all employees, companies can implement Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) initiatives. These initiatives include establishing anti-discrimination policies, creating employee networks for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies, addressing bias in performance reviews, showing senior management allyship, and providing internal channels to flag concerns.

What D&I are made of

An inclusive workplace embraces diversity in all forms, from geographical presence to gender and sexuality, and fosters a sense of ownership and happiness among employees. Successful D&I implementation requires collaboration between LGBTQ+ professionals, allies, and management.

Getting it right as an LGBTQ+ ally

Companies like 99.co and TaskUs have implemented inclusive practices such as using employee pronouns, offering healthcare benefits to LGBTQ+ partners, and providing gender-inclusive facilities. These initiatives improve employee productivity, attract diverse talent, and create a mentally healthy work environment.

After the rain

Continuing the conversation on D&I is crucial for creating a more inclusive workplace. Leadership support, active listening to employees, and starting conversations about LGBTQ+ inclusion are essential steps for building a diverse and supportive work environment.

As the tech startup ecosystem strives for innovation, D&I should be a key agenda to create a more inclusive #futureofwork. The pandemic has provided an opportunity to re-examine workplace practices and prioritize diversity and inclusion for all employees.

Image Credit: Clem Onojeghuo on Unsplash

This article was first published on June 18, 2023

The post Building the rainbow bridge: How businesses can foster Diversity & Inclusion for LGBTQ+ employees appeared first on e27.