Creating a Trans-inclusive Workplace

Document Type

Article

Language

eng

Publication Date

3-1-2020

Publisher

Harvard Business Publishing

Source Publication

Harvard Business Review

Source ISSN

0017-8012

Abstract

Trans people often experience stigma and discrimination, hostility from others, and pressure to “manage” their identities in social settings, including the workplace. These experiences can set in motion a host of psychological responses that have devastating consequences for trans individuals’ job satisfaction, turnover intentions, and emotional well-being. Despite growing public awareness of the struggles that trans individuals often face, many employers remain ill-equipped to create policies and workplace cultures that support their trans employees. Fortunately, a growing body of research suggests how they can more effectively attract, retain, and promote the health and success of these workers. Interviews with and surveys of more than 1,000 trans people over the past six years reveal four key areas of intervention that can cultivate a more trans-inclusive workplace: (1) basic signs of trans inclusivity involving bathroom use, dress codes, and pronouns; (2) effective support for gender transitions; (3) trans-specific diversity trainings; and (4) interventions to build resiliency.

Comments

Harvard Business Review, Vol. 98, No. 2 (March/April 2020): 114-123, DOI.

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS