Advancing inclusion through multidimensional well-being: a systematic review of LGBTQ+ employee experiences

Purpose Organizations are increasingly employing LGBTQ+ individuals, underscoring the urgent need for a comprehensive understanding of their workplace experiences, attitudes, behaviors, and their influence on their well-being. This study seeks to address this gap by investigating the factors that shape various dimensions of well-being among LGBTQ+ employees. Design/methodology/approach Drawing on Van Horn's multidimensional well-being model, this study conducts a multidisciplinary systematic literature review of studies published in Scopus-indexed journals. Findings Factors such as identity concealment, unsupportive environments, workplace hostility and exclusion adversely affect the affective well-being of LGBTQ+ employees. Professional and psychosomatic well-being are rarely explored, while financial well-being remains largely overlooked, highlighting the need for focused research and interventions. Research limitations/implications This paper provides researchers with a framework to assess and enhance the workplace experiences of LGBTQ+ employees, while also guiding future studies on inclusivity. Practical implications The study provides practitioners with strategies to develop supportive policies, foster inclusive organizational cultures and promote workplace equity. Social implications At a societal level, the study may contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals– Gender Equality (Goal 5), Decent Work (Goal 8) and Reduced Inequalities (Goal 10)- by potentially improving retention, reducing discrimination and fostering economic benefits. Originality/value This study extends the multidimensional Van Horn model by incorporating financial well-being, thereby advancing theoretical understanding of employee well-being. It also offers deeper insights into LGBTQ+ workplace experiences and informs inclusive HR practices.