Out to Succeed
Challenge
Broad research into the experiences and expectations of LGBT+ workers had previously been conducted, however little information is available specifically around early-career LGBT+ professionals.
Actions
In partnership with PwC, Out Leadership undertook a research project aimed at exploring the experiences and expectations of early-career, high-potential LGBT+ professionals.
Drawing on cohorts from Out Leadership’s OutNEXT LGBT+ leadership develop program, we surveyed emerging leaders who had been identified by their companies as high-performing and high-potential around important aspects of their career including their comfort in being out in the workplace, mentorship and sponsorship, willingness to relocate, and importance of LGBT+ inclusive policies and workplace cultures.
The responses to this survey revealed gaps between what LGBT+ professionals and companies view as important in their careers. In particular, respectively 97% and 99% of LGBT+ respondents viewed LGBT+ inclusive policies and reputation as a fair and equal employer as important to making an organization attractive, while only 39% and 57% of companies felt the same.
Outcomes
Insights from this research were distilled in the report Out to Succeed: Realizing the Full Potential of LGBT+ Talent and launched to an audience of senior executives in May 2018. The report has also been made available online.
Contact
Wes Werbeck
Quote
Since 2011, Out Leadership has engaged more than 300 CEOs on five continents in conversations about the business impact of LGBT+ equality, and I have seen first-hand the power CEOS have to drive inclusion within their companies, in their communities, and around the world. The engagement of the global C-Suite has truly benefited the progress of LGBT+ equality, and CEOs will continue to play a critical role in our movement.