How to Be an Effective LGBTQ+ Ally at Work

Learning how to be an LGBTQ+ ally is everyone's duty. In 2019, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits sex discrimination, also applies to discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. This ruling paved the way to end workplace discrimination for LGBTQ+ workers.

However, the challenging part of creating inclusive and safe workplaces continues. According to a Monster poll, 15% of LGBTQ+ identifying workers are not “out” at work, signaling an opportunity for all of us to play a part in creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. But you can't simply say you're an LGBTQ+ ally; you have to act like one—at work and everywhere else, for that matter.

Sadly, when it comes to the former, many businesses have room for improvement. On top of an environment where many don’t feel comfortable being themselves, according to a Human Rights Campaign (HRC) survey, LGBTQ+ workers make only 89 cents for every dollar earned by the “typical worker.”

The good news is that you can make a difference no matter what your sexual orientation is. In this article, we look at some ways in which you can act as an ally for LGBTQ+ inclusion and help prevent discrimination in your workplace.

Actionable Tips for How to Be an LGBTQ+ Ally

Being an ally is about being proactive in your support, taking the time to understand the unique challenges faced by the community, and helping to enact meaningful change. It's a continuous endeavor requiring ongoing education, empathy, and action.

Your role as an ally is invaluable in building a more inclusive and equitable world for everyone. Here are some actions you can put in place today to help you navigate this meaningful journey:

Educate Yourself

Learning about the LGBTQ+ community's history and current events will give you a fundamental understanding of their challenges in the workplace while providing a few lessons on becoming an LGBTQ+ ally. Reliable resources include GLAAD (formerly the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation), the Equality Federation, and the National LGBTQ Task Force. You can also take advantage of any diversity and inclusion training your company offers, and consider recommending LGBTQ+ focused sessions if they're lacking.

Another effective way to educate yourself is to learn the specific terms within the LGBTQ+ spectrum, like cisgender, transgender, non-binary, asexual, and others, to communicate respectfully and effectively. A wider understanding of language can also make LGBTQ+ individuals feel seen and respected.

Join an LGBTQ+ Resource Group

Many forward-thinking companies have internal committees dedicated to promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion practices within their organization and teaching others how to be LGBTQ+ allies. If your employer has one, taking an active role in it allows you to directly support your LGBTQ+ co-workers and participate in making the culture a safe space.

In addition, there are several industry-specific organizations focused on helping LGBTQ+ workers succeed, and almost all of them perform advocacy work. For instance, the National Gay Pilots Association (NGPA) fosters equal treatment of LGBTQ+ aviators through advocacy and outreach programs and offers scholarships to LGBTQ+ aviation students. Joining such a group in your field can enable you to advance LGBTQ+ workplace rights.

Uncover and Address Your Own Biases

Increasing your awareness around your implicit biases will help you learn how to be a better LGBTQ+ ally. A good starting point: Take Harvard's Implicit Association Test (IAT), which tests your transgender bias. Then, you can work on educating yourself.

Whenever you find yourself making an assumption or jumping to conclusions, pause and ask yourself why you think that way. Make a conscious effort to challenge these thoughts and consider alternative perspectives.

Track your progress over time. Have you become more aware of your biases? Are you making strides in combating them? Hold yourself accountable and share your commitment and progress with someone you trust.

Use Gender-Neutral Greetings

79% of workers in a Monster poll report that they are never asked their pronouns when first meeting coworkers. Many people make the mistake of assuming a person's gender identity by using gender-specific greetings like, "Hey, man!"

Until you know someone's personal gender pronouns, go with gender-neutral pronouns. For example, the next time you send an email to your team or lead a meeting, open with a gender-neutral introduction—instead of saying, "Hi, ladies and gentlemen," go with a simple "Hi, everyone" or "Hello, teammates."

Take a Stand for Your LGBTQ+ Coworkers

More than half of LGBTQ+ employees (53%) said they've heard lesbian and gay jokes at work, according to the HRC. Don't be silent when you hear derogatory remarks. Speak up and let it be known that such remarks aren't welcome.

In addition, you can act like an LGBTQ+ ally by asking your employer to add language about respectful workplaces, sexual orientation, and gender identification to your company's employee handbook. You could also help to lobby for equal benefits for LGBTQ+ employees, including healthcare that covers the specific needs of the community, like gender-affirming treatments.

Maybe you could advocate for the implementation of gender-neutral restrooms, a particularly significant issue for transgender and non-binary individuals. Remember, your support can profoundly impact someone's work life, contributing to a more inclusive and equitable workplace for all.

Connect with Your LGBTQ+ Colleagues

One way to foster inclusivity and establish trust is by meeting with your colleagues one-on-one—just as long as they are open to it. If you work with LGBTQ+ people who are out, ask what their experience is like in the workplace and how you can support them. Provide your own feedback, but focus more on listening to theirs.

It's also OK to admit that you might lack some information. Still, it's imperative that you’re respectful and do your research to find out what questions are appropriate to ask LGBTQ+ colleagues. Here are some you could ask:

• How do you feel about the company’s diversity and inclusion initiatives?
• What’s your experience been like in this industry?
• Is there anything you wish your coworkers knew about being an ally?

Find a LGBTQ+ Friendly Employer

Company values are high on the list of determining factors when choosing where to apply for jobs. That's why the Corporate Equality Index (CEI) by the HRC is so valuable for job seekers. It rates workplaces on LGBTQ+ equality, such as businesses that have tailored their diversity and inclusion policies to specifically accommodate LGBTQ+ employees.

You can also leverage the power of social media. Companies that genuinely care about LGBTQ+ inclusion often demonstrate it publicly. Look for evidence of participation in Pride events, LGBTQ+ fundraisers, or other diversity and inclusion activities.

Alternatively, online forums and networking events can be platforms for candid discussions about LGBTQ+ friendly employers. Don’t underestimate the power of collective wisdom in making an informed choice.

Measure Impact, Not Intent

Your intent as an ally is crucial, but what ultimately matters is the impact of your actions. Listen to feedback from your LGBTQ+ colleagues about how your actions are perceived and be willing to adjust as needed.

Being an effective LGBTQ+ ally in the workplace involves more than just good intentions; it requires consistent actions, ongoing education, and a willingness to use your position to advocate for change. It's not a static role but a continuous effort to ensure your LGBTQ+ colleagues feel supported, included, and valued.

Job Search Like an LGBTQ+ Ally

Find an employer that reflects your values and supports diversity and inclusivity. Get started by creating a free profile on Monster. We help streamline your job search by sending you customized job alerts so that you only review opportunities that match your goals. You deserve to work for a company that is a safe space and welcomes everyone to their team.