Belonging beyond the binary: the positive experiences of visible non-binary and genderqueer individuals in the workplace

Abstract

Purpose

The number of people being identified as non-binary and genderqueer (NBGQ) is rapidly increasing, but the literature offers scant guidance for organisations aiming to offer these workers an inclusive environment in which they feel that they belong. This study explores how the positive experiences of NBGQ individuals contribute to their sense of belonging in the workplace.

Design/methodology/approach

In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with five participants, exploring their positive experiences of belonging at work and the data were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA).

Findings

Three higher-order themes were created: allowing authenticity; social support and creating inclusive culture. Findings from this study suggest that NBGQ authenticity, perceived colleague social support and the proactive creation of inclusive organisational cultures interact to develop a sense of belonging for NBGQ individuals in the workplace.

Originality/value

Empirical studies on the experiences of non-binary people at work are almost non-existent. Existing research predominantly explores the negative experiences of NBGQ individuals as a subset of a transgender demographic. This article focuses specifically on the experiences of NBGQ workers and thus contributes to filling this gap in the literature.

Citation

Trotter, M. and Yates, J. (2024), "Belonging beyond the binary: the positive experiences of visible non-binary and genderqueer individuals in the workplace", Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/EDI-10-2023-0359