Navigating Work Environments as LGBTQ+ Professionals

LGBTQ+ professionals have shared that they often need to make adjustments to their personality and presentation in a business setting or at work. According to data from LinkedIn, 66% of LGBTQ+ professionals have had to seek out an ally in the workplace.

Code-switching, or adapting mannerisms for societal acceptance, has been a common strategy for fitting in, as mentioned by respondents. LinkedIn’s data revealed that 74% of LGBTQ+ professionals have engaged in code-switching to avoid negative stereotypes, and 57% are uncomfortable presenting their full identity at work.

Andrew McCaskill, a Culture & Economics Contributor at SiriusXM and career expert at LinkedIn, mentioned the importance of using neutral pronouns at work to maintain comfort for everyone. LGBTQ+ professionals expressed concerns about being overlooked for opportunities or facing hostility from colleagues or managers.

The concept of the “invisible tax” refers to the hidden costs of not fully expressing oneself at work due to sexuality or gender identity. McCaskill emphasized the significance of looking for “culture cues” in companies to find a safe and inclusive environment.

McCaskill suggested looking for indicators like inclusive language in email signatures, visibility of queer leaders, and presence of LGBTQ+ resource groups when considering a company’s culture. He also emphasized discussing specific benefits for the LGBTQ+ community with recruiters.

LinkedIn and Impact Media have launched the “Out@Work” initiative in 2024 to support LGBTQ+ professionals in their career journey and help them find inclusive workplaces.