The survey, conducted by myGwork, underscored the importance of LGBTQIA inclusivity in the workplace
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE BY GETTY IMAGES (VIA CANVA)
A recent survey conducted by myGwork in collaboration with Highered unveiled significant insights into the preferences and concerns of LGBTQIA students and graduates in the job market. The research, based on responses from over 2,000 participants worldwide, shed light on the importance of workplace inclusivity for this demographic.
According to the findings, 36% of students and recent graduates identify as LGBTQIA. Three-quarters of LGBTQIA Gen Z job seekers expressed reluctance to join companies where they couldn’t be their authentic selves, would fear being discriminated against, face bias and be given limited opportunities for training or development required to progress.
The study highlighted the pivotal role of visible LGBTQIA role models in senior positions. A lack of such representation discourages many young LGBTQIA professionals from believing in their potential for career advancement within those organisations. Notably, 8 out of 10 LGBTQIA students and graduates perceived their sexual orientation as a potential barrier to reaching leadership positions.
Discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity remains prevalent in workplaces and educational institutions, with 48% of LGBTQIA students/graduates witnessing such discrimination. Additionally, 36% of LGBTQIA respondents personally experienced discrimination, including homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia.
LGBTQIA students and graduates of colour face higher instances of discrimination, both in witnessing it (52%) and experiencing it personally (40%), compared to their white peers (42% and 30%, respectively).
The research underscored the critical role of active corporate allyship, with 8 out of 10 LGBTQIA students and graduates indicating reluctance to join companies that have withdrawn support for the LGBTQIA community.
In response to the findings, myGwork’s co-founders, Adrien and Pierre Gaubert, emphasised the research’s value in guiding organisations toward creating fair and inclusive environments. “Our latest research goes beyond highlighting industries perceived to be more LGBTQ+ friendly by young job seekers. It provides insights into the criteria LGBTQ+ students and recent graduates seek in inclusive employers and the essential benefits necessary to attract and retain them,” they said.
“In an era where inclusion and belonging are critical to progressive workplaces, myGwork’s research serves as an indispensable guide for organisations aiming to create fair and inclusive environments to attract the valuable talent they need to succeed.”
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