20 Steps to an Out & Equal Workplace

Over the nearly 30-year journey of Out & Equal, we have collaborated with numerous organizations to develop and identify best practices that foster equality in the workplace for LGBTQ+ and allied employees. These proven core principles have guided many employers in enriching and sustaining businesses of belonging. 

Equality as a matter of policy 

1. Include sexual orientation and gender identity in global nondiscrimination and anti-harassment policies. 
2. Recognize same-sex couples and their families with full, equal access to all company benefits globally, including domestic partner and marriage benefits. 
3. Ensure that global health coverage includes complete health benefits for transgender employees without exclusions. 
4. Ensure that supplier codes of conduct include sexual orientation and gender identity in nondiscrimination policies. 

Talent management & professional development 

1. Establish and support employee resource groups for LGBTQ+ people and allies.
2. Provide relevant and accessible mentorship opportunities for all employees, including those who are LGBTQ+.
3. Offer leadership and professional development experiences that address the specific experiences of LGBTQ+ employees.
4. Track recruitment and career development metrics for LGBTQ+ employees who choose to self-identify in order to determine barriers to success

Building and sustaining an inclusive culture

1. Verify that internal training programs are LGBTQ+-inclusive and reaffirm your organization’s commitment to inclusion. Existing nondiscrimination protections should be easily accessible on job applications, the intranet, a job site bulletin board, and in the employee manual. 
2. Ensure employees have access to the Out & Equal website to obtain a wide range of materials related to LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion. While some content is available to everyone, regardless of partnership status, Out & Equal Partners can access a library of over [INSERT #] microlearnings, on-demand webinars, one-pagers, and other resources.
3. Conduct climate surveys to assess the effectiveness of LGBTQ+-inclusive policies and programs. 
4. Regularly inform all employees about how the organization supports its LGBTQ+ workforce. 

Community commitment  

1. Support nonprofit groups working for LGBTQ equality.
2. Sponsor and encourage visible participation in LGBTQ cultural events.
3. Develop and implement LGBTQ-inclusive marketing and advertising strategies.
4. Include LGBTQ-owned businesses in supplier diversity program objectives.

Advocacy & corporate responsibility  

1. Be a visible role model for LGBTQ workplace equality in the community.
2. Support public policy efforts that protect LGBTQ workplace equality.
3. Actively oppose any attempts that would limit or restrict LGBTQ workplace equality.
4. Share leading practices on LGBTQ workplace equality by supporting the Out & Equal events.