28% of LGBTQI+ Workers Quit Due to Feeling Uncomfortable in the Workplace

A Randstad survey reveals that over a quarter of LGBTQI+ workers have left their jobs due to uncomfortable work environments, with 41% experiencing workplace discrimination.

A significant percentage of LGBTQI+ workers in a recent study have said they left their jobs due to uncomfortable work environments and negative experiences.

The findings from Randstad’s 2024 Workmonitor Pulse survey shows that 28% of LGBTQI+ workers have left jobs due to discomfort related to these experiences.

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The prevalent issue suggests a need for workplaces to adopt or even maintain inclusive policies this year — particularly as businesses strive to attract and retain top talent in a competitive labor market.

The survey, of more than 2,000 employees within the LGBTQI+ community, was conducted across seven countries and reveals that 41% of respondents have faced workplace discrimination.

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The World Economic Forum reports that discriminatory issues range from being excluded in meetings to being overlooked for promotions.

When asked if the respondent worries about career progression due to discrimination, the different generations varied in answers:

Gen Z – 45%
Millennial – 41%
Gen X – 35%
Baby Boomer – 29%

According to the Randstad report, “Just under half (49%) of LGBTQI+ workers feel comfortable discussing their sexuality or gender identity at work, while more than a quarter (28%) avoid it altogether.”

These negative experiences add to individuals feeling uncomfortable in the workplace and this is impacting overall job satisfaction and retention amongst this demographic.

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Discrimination in the workplace takes many forms — including microaggressions and lack of representation. It’s reported that the various issues not only affect the mental and emotional well-being of LGBTQI+ employees but also damage professional growth.

In fact, the survey found that “Nearly 1 in 3 LGBTQI+ employees have not applied for a job due to fear of discrimination.”

This also differs based on where the respondent is from:

Australia – 38%
France – 37%
Germany – 31%
Japan – 17%

Netherlands – 21%
United Kingdom – 40%
United States – 41%

To create inclusive and diverse work environments, the report suggests that companies should implement policies that promote respect, equity, and inclusion. This includes providing diversity training, establishing employee resource groups, and ensuring that all employees feel valued and heard through promoting year-round allyship. This means actively promoting diversity beyond designated months or corporate events.