Every June, across many countries, we celebrate Pride Month. It’s about recognising and celebrating those who are part of the LGBTQ+ community.  

In the workplace, there are many things we can be doing to make sure that colleague feel comfortable to bring their whole self to work. If people are comfortable being who they are in the workplace and note feeling like they have to put on a persona, then we’ll be able to understand and get to know each other better. This can have great benefits, not only for the mental wellbeing of the team, but embracing diversity can also see a more productive and engaged workforce. 

Embracing inclusion 

Here are a few things you can be doing in your workplace to embrace diversity and inclusion: 

1. Set up a diversity and inclusion network

This network can be for anyone to join. This way, we can all be looking at key areas that might either encourage those to join our organisation (focusing on how and where we recruit potential new colleagues from), to looking out how our workplace can be more inclusive (accessibility and facilities).

2. Communication with colleagues

Setting up a regular drum-beat of communication with colleagues about how they can be more inclusive can really help all to feel more comfortable in the workplace. From information about the correct terminologies, to calling out inappropriate comments, means that your organisation will have a zero-tolerance policy towards discriminatory behaviours. 

Use national celebrations as a tool for educating colleagues about different communities, be that Pride Month, Black History Month or marking of religious celebrations such as Ramadan and what that means to these communities can help to build an understanding across your colleague, client and customer networks

3. Let it show

Tell your customers and clients that you are a supporter of inclusion and diversity! Once you have established your internal communications and colleagues are feeling the benefits of your inclusion, now is the time to tell your external networks about how you are being inclusive. It's no good putting the cart before the horse, you need to be genuine in your support for diversity and inclusion, and not just be a sticker on the side of a van, or a banner on your social media pages. You need to make sure that you are being genuine – or people will see right through it. 

The best ideas on how to be a more inclusive employer comes from your colleagues, so listen to their ideas and get them involved in the journey.