Surviving At Work As A Person Of Color

Leaving Toxicity

Recognizing when to leave a non-supportive workplace is crucial for marginalized employees. Alan Henry emphasizes the importance of identifying when emotional needs aren't met and psychological safety is lacking. He shares his experience of facing microaggressions and the lack of recourse, highlighting the need to seek healthier work environments 1.

A lot of people realize that there's a certain point where they just can't survive anymore in this environment.

--- Alan Henry

Finding a company that values diversity and inclusion can lead to a more fulfilling career path.

   

Workload Balance

Balancing "office housework" and "glamour work" is a strategic challenge for career advancement. Alan Henry describes how marginalized employees often find themselves doing tasks that don't advance their careers, like scheduling meetings or ordering lunch 2.

Office housekeeping is generally considered the kind of work that is required to get done in order for the team to keep doing whatever it does.

--- Alan Henry

He stresses the importance of advocating for opportunities that showcase skills and lead to promotions.

   

Managing Up

Effectively managing up involves aligning tasks with career goals and setting boundaries. Alan Henry suggests strategies like rotating mundane tasks among team members and learning to say no without damaging career prospects 3.

It's saying no and or no. But, so I'll order lunch this time, but can john do it next week?

--- Alan Henry

Protecting one's boundaries is essential to avoid being overwhelmed by non-advancing tasks.

   

Productivity Strategies

Maintaining productivity in environments with unequal opportunities requires strategic navigation. Alan Henry introduces the concept of "productivity without privilege," where marginalized employees must find ways to succeed despite systemic barriers 4.

Some people would be praised for that kind of forward thinking, that kind of, you know, commitment to their actual work.

--- Alan Henry

He highlights the double standards in workplaces and the need to push back against stereotypes to thrive.