E1028: Laura Huang, author of “Edge: Turning Adversity into Advantage” shares insights on overcoming disadvantages to create an edge, being bitter vs. getting better, structural bias in tech & more
Feb 14, 2020
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Laura Huang, a Harvard Business School professor and author of "Edge: Turning Adversity into Advantage," dives into transforming challenges into strengths. She discusses structural biases in tech that affect female entrepreneurs and how to leverage negative perceptions to demonstrate value. Huang emphasizes the importance of emotional resilience, sharing her thoughts on dealing with bitterness versus growth. Listeners can also learn about the power of connection in overcoming disadvantages and the significance of self-empowerment in the face of systemic challenges.
Strategically shape others' perceptions by addressing biases, redirecting conversations, and emphasizing unique strengths to gain an edge in professional settings.
Take proactive steps to showcase abilities and achievements, focusing on enriching and delighting others to increase chances of recognition.
Shift mindset from bitterness to personal growth by reflecting on values, cultivating resilience, and letting go of negative emotions.
Deep dives
Strategies for Turning Adversity into Advantage
In her book, Laura Huang discusses strategies for turning adversity into advantage. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing and understanding the perceptions and biases others may have towards you based on factors such as gender, race, and background. By anticipating these perceptions and guiding them in a positive direction, individuals can strategically shape others' perceptions of their abilities and potential. This involves addressing potential biases head-on, redirecting the conversation, and emphasizing one's unique strengths and contributions. The goal is to delight others and create opportunities to showcase and provide value, ultimately gaining an edge in professional settings.
The Challenge of Getting Recognition for Hard Work
One common challenge faced, particularly by women, is not receiving the recognition and rewards they feel they deserve for their hard work and contributions. Laura Huang acknowledges this phenomenon and highlights the need for individuals to take proactive steps in showcasing their abilities and achievements. Rather than relying solely on hard work, individuals should focus on enriching and delighting others, guiding their perceptions, and strategically positioning themselves to be seen and valued for their accomplishments. By taking ownership of their own narrative and actively shaping how they are perceived, individuals can increase their chances of getting the recognition they deserve.
Overcoming Bitterness and Building Resilience
Laura Huang also addresses the challenge of bitterness and resentment that can arise from experiencing bias or unfair treatment. She encourages individuals to shift their mindset and view these experiences as opportunities for personal growth and improvement. Instead of dwelling on past injustices, Huang suggests focusing on how to become better, not bitter. This involves reflecting on personal values, identifying areas for improvement, and letting go of negative emotions. By cultivating resilience, empathy, and trustworthiness, individuals can navigate challenging situations with grace and maintain a positive outlook on their professional journeys.
The Power of Personal Agency and Self-Advocacy
Finally, Laura Huang emphasizes the importance of personal agency and assertive self-advocacy. Rather than waiting for structural changes to level the playing field, individuals are encouraged to take ownership of their own success and create their own privilege. This involves understanding one's unique strengths and finding ways to leverage them, guiding others' perceptions through strategic communication, and showcasing value and potential. By proactively shaping how they are seen and recognized, individuals can gain an edge in professional settings and increase their chances of getting the opportunities they deserve.
The Power of Emotional Resilience in Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurs often experience extreme highs and lows in their journey. It is crucial for founders to ride these emotional waves while staying grounded. By understanding and acknowledging their emotions without becoming consumed by them, founders can harness valuable insights and data to navigate both success and failure.
The Importance of Having Definitive Endings in Conflict
In confrontations or conflicts, it is essential to have clear and decisive endings rather than prolonged battles. The analogy of using a sword in a war is used, where quick and decisive strikes result in definite conclusions. It is suggested that when faced with conflicts, individuals should either completely ignore the opposing party or take swift and firm actions that leave no room for retaliation. By cutting off harmful relationships and setting clear boundaries, individuals can protect themselves and prevent unnecessary prolongation of conflicts.
0:41 Jason intros "Edge" Author Laura Huang
3:00 How do Harvard MBA students compare with Stanford MBA students?
7:17 Why did Laura write "Edge" at this time?
8:55 Overcoming disadvantages based on race, ethnicity & gender
14:56 Laura's experience reading her own audiobook
17:23 What does her research show about structural bias against Female entrepreneurs?
23:33 How can a founder turn adversity into an advantage when asked a question with a negative bias?
28:01 How being underestimated inhibits the opportunity to enrich & provide value? What is an example of delight in p2p interaction?
36:39 How should we look at intent when discussing bias & privilege?
44:35 How to deal with being bitter vs. getting better and controlling emotions while still allowing ourselves to feel?
1:00:17 Laura & Jason share personal stories about bitter vs. better & explain how she converted her energy
1:05:09 What is Laura's hope for the lasting impact "Edge" has on its readers?
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