Companies will have to apply more efforts to better accommodate LGBT (lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgenders). According to the results of a survey on diversity at work sponsored by Sodexo, Canadians expect more and more to change in an inclusive workplace. The approach may prove profitable for companies.
While nearly 60 private Canadian companies currently clearly display their commitment regarding LGBT communities by becoming partners of Pride at Work, others have not yet taken the plunge. This strategy of openness toward sexual minorities may however be worthwhile since in the eyes of employees and potential candidates it represents a largely positive sign. In the study conducted by Léger Marketing on behalf of Sodexo, 93% of 1090 Canadian employees interviewed think that employees who feel good about themselves at work are more likely to contribute to the success of their company. Another point to note: 87% of working Canadians believe that companies who treat their employees without regard to sexual orientation, race, culture or religion are more likely to succeed.
Providing better conditions
Canadian employees are therefore well aware of the impact of the company’s culture on its success. But they also note that there are efforts to be made. So 67% of workers believe that companies can do better to accommodate LGBT employees. Among workers from these sexual minorities the rate is even higher at 81%. When they discuss the case of the company in which they work, 49% of those interviewed consider that their employer could do more so that LGBT employees feel more at ease in their workplace. There again, the proportion is higher for workers from these minorities, at 59%.
Making the change
But how should Canadian companies go about it? There are existing tools such as those provided by the Pride at Work organization. Among other things they allow for carrying out a policy of valuing diversity within the company that is committed to it (resource persons, fact sheets, seminars, networking). Numerous studies have have contributed to the discussion around these questions in recent years, especially on the commitment of LGBT employees to their company. On the Pride at Work site we also learn that half of workers from sexual minorities will be more loyal to employers who put diversity policies and programs in place that favour LGBT.