Covering is a strategy through which an individual downplays a stigmatized identity. It can take place in four common ways:
Appearance-based - how individuals alter their self-presentation (grooming, attire, and mannerisms) to blend into the ‘norm’ or mainstream
Affiliation-base - how individuals avoid behaviors widely associated with their identity to negate stereotypes about their identity
Advocacy-base - how vocal an employee might be when discussing a class or group to which they belong
Association-based - how individuals avoid contact with other group members
In a 2013 Deloitte study examining covering more than 3,000 workers from a broad mix of industries, ages, genders, races, and sexual orientations, 61% of respondents reported that they engaged in at least one covering behavior while at work (diverse employees groups: 83% of LGBT, 79% of Black, 66% of female, 63% of Hispanic/Latino). Another study showed the impact of covering — Over 1 in 4 respondents felt covering negatively affected their sense of self; respondents who cover are twice as likely to have seriously considered leaving their organizations.
Discover how covering impacts employees and workplace culture and hear tips on how to create a culture of belonging.
By attending the session, you will be able to:
• Learn the definition of covering.
• Understand how covering impacts employees and work culture.
• Learn how employers can create environments for employees to bring themselves fully to work.