In today’s rapidly evolving world, organizations continue to increase their awareness of the importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). But while many companies have taken strides to address gender diversity, research shows that there’s more work to be done with regard to creating better understanding around gender identity.

Consider this study from McKinsey which found that often “employers focus more on supporting sexual-orientation diversity in the workplace than on gender identity or expression.” Their U.S. based research shows some profound findings: 

  • More than half of gender-nonconforming employees say they are not comfortable being out at work. Two-thirds remain in the closet in professional interactions outside their own companies. 
  • People who identify as transgender feel far less supported in the workplace than their cisgender colleagues do. They report that it’s more difficult to understand workplace culture and benefits, and harder to get promoted. They also feel less supported by their managers. 
  • Greater transgender inclusion in the workforce would benefit everyone. A concerted effort to increase employment and wage equity for transgender people could boost annual consumer spending by $12 billion a year. 

To help you navigate through gender identity with sensitivity and respect in a way that will ultimately benefit everyone, we’ve sifted through relevant content on gender identity to see what today’s influencers and industry leaders are saying about it. 

Alonzo Martinez | Associate General Counsel, HireRight 

In a recent article published in Forbes, An employer’s guide to inclusive language, Alonzo Martinez, Associate General Counsel at HireRight, explains how incorporating inclusive language involves the use of words, phrases, and expressions that demonstrate respect and consideration for every person. The goal is to foster an environment that embraces diversity, encourages empathy, and prevents the marginalization or exclusion of any individual or group. 

Why we like it? Through the practice of inclusive language and stated pronouns, employers can establish a standard where individuals are at ease with expressing their gender identity—and their colleagues can better understand why it’s important use accurate pronouns. Read the full piece.

Nancy Rothbard | Professor of Management, The Wharton School 

Professor Rothbard was one of three faculty members featured in Wharton’s article, Redefining gender at work: How companies are evolving, where scholars explore how workplaces are striving to create effective policies to address rapidly changing societal norms on gender.

Why we like it? Every employee deserves to feel safe, seen, and celebrated for exactly who they are. This resource can help managers understand how to get there. Read the full piece.

Shane O’Neill | New York Times Journalist 

Earlier this summer, Shane wrote a piece for The New York Times titled Defining nonbinary work wear, honing in on the unique pressures nonbinary people report feeling while choosing a work outfit. And while the focus might appear to be self-expression through fashion, Shane gives readers meaningful insight into some of the everyday obstacles nonbinary employees may face.

Why we like it? At Traliant, we know that stories make learning easy. They are effortlessly memorable, enabling us to retain knowledge in a transformative way. This article shares multiple stories from nonbinary employees and the struggles they face—offering a chance for readers to gain perspective in a safe and organic setting. Read the full piece. 

Traliant Resources 

For more information on Traliant’s DEI training click here.