Life Kit How To Survive at Work as a Person of Color
Sep 17, 2020
Alan Henry, Service Editor at Wired, is an expert in navigating workplace dynamics for marginalized employees. He discusses the unique challenges people of color face, from biases in how productivity is perceived to the complexities of task assignments that can hinder career advancement. Henry emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and building community through employee resource groups. He also shares strategies for managing workplace interactions and maintaining boundaries, empowering listeners to thrive in inequitable environments.
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Unvalued Expertise
- Alan Henry was headhunted for a role, but his expertise wasn't respected by the team.
- He was given less important projects, which he calls "office housework."
Glamour Work vs. Office Housework
- Office housework, like scheduling meetings or ordering lunch, is necessary but often undervalued.
- Glamour work, like presenting at conferences, gets noticed and leads to promotions.
Double Standard in Self-Advocacy
- Self-advocacy is perceived differently based on identity. Some are seen as assertive while others as aggressive or angry.
- Marginalized groups face negative stereotypes when speaking up.