by Solange Lopes | Sep 7, 2017 | Career
Being a woman of color at work often means being the only one, if not one of the only ones, in the room. It also means that the rules of success are somewhat different for women of color than they are for others.
According to this report by AAUW, “most minority groups and women” are under-represented, be it in the private or public sector. While Black women account for only 8% of the private sector workforce and 1.5% of leadership, Hispanic women make up for 6% of the workforce and 1.3% of leadership.
As a woman of color in the corporate world, I’ve also had to learn that the rules for women of color at work are different. There are so few of us in the corporate trenches, as we’re also faced with the double bias of being women and of a different race. While speaking up and raising our voices may be encouraged for everyone else, they may be interpreted differently for women of color. Hence the “angry black woman” and other stereotypes of the same kind…
From my experience and learning from so many other women of color in the corporate world, here are 10 rules for success you can start applying today:
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Stop being afraid of being yourself
Most people in the corporate world wear a mask. It’s just a fact. However, for women of color at work, wearing a mask has many times been a necessity. According to studies by the Center for Women Policy, 21% of women of color do not think they can be themselves at work. Another 28 to 44% believe they must downplay their ethnicity to increase their chances of success at work.
While this is still the reality in many, if not most, corporate environments, authenticity is still the best way to change the dialogue about women of color at work. The more we hide behind our corporate masks, the less we can bring focus on the actual issues faced by women of color at work.
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Get used to being uncomfortable
Being a woman of color at work rhymes with being uncomfortable. Not only are there very few other women of color in the room, but our lack of representation can also make it challenging for others to understand the struggles we may face.
However, being uncomfortable is also an advantage. The more uncomfortable you are, the more prepared you tend to be. Getting used to uncomfortable and challenging environments is also the key to being innovative and a high performer.
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Find your sweet spot
There are many challenges associated with being a woman of color in a corporate environment. Yet they shouldn’t prevent you from excelling and being the best you can be. Finding your sweet spot, that overlap between your skills, interests and opportunities, is crucial to achieving success, especially as woman of color at work.
The reality is very often, you may have to work harder at convincing others of your competence and professionalism. Hitting on your key kills and interests will give you that competitive edge you’ll need to attract the right opportunities.
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Challenge yourself to speak up
Speaking up as a woman of color at work can be double-edged sword. On one hand, you may be labeled as “too assertive” or downright “angry”. On the other hand, not raising your voice may make you seem incompetent or disinterested.
Whatever bias you may have to confront, I’ve found that the best answer, more often than not, is to speak up. You have way too much knowledge, insight and experience not to share it to empower others and increase your team and company’s efficiency.
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Keep showing up
As a woman of color in the corporate world, there were many times when I was tempted to stop showing up. For many of us, the challenges can be so overwhelming that we may think of giving up, stopping to volunteer or participate, or even flat-out resign.
Keep showing up, persevering and demonstrating your best efforts. While your work may go unnoticed at times, it’s important to consistently show up and bring your best contribution to the table.
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Share your experience
During my interview with Forbes Books, one of the questions that was asked of me by Gregg Stebben had me thinking about how we share our experiences as women of color at work. The question was: “What would you want someone like me (a white man) to know about women of color’s experience at work?”
His question made me realize that although we may face numerous challenges at work, we rarely share our experiences to help others understand us better. The reality is, there is always going to be a certain level of unconscious bias embedded in people. It’s up to us to change the norm by changing others’ understanding of who we are and what we experience.
Whether you create a group for women of color at work, educate your co-workers and peers, or mentor a fellow woman, use your experience to empower others and create a positive environment.
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Mentor another woman of color
I wish I had another woman of color tell me about what to expect as a woman of color in the corporate world. Someone who would have gone through similar experiences, and would prepare or advise me on the best ways to handle certain situations and still thrive at work.
In general, women need more mentors in the workplace. While no one woman’s experience is the same as the next, there are similar themes in the challenges we face. As women in general, and women of color in particular, it’s our responsibility to mentor one another. It’s another way to keep that door of opportunity open for those coming behind us, and to better our work environments with each generation of women leaders.
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Don’t just sit at the table, move to the front of the room
Yes, there are many more women of color who are sitting at the table. Many of us are even leading the conversation. Yet, there are still too many of us who are either not in the room, or sitting somewhere in the dark, unseen, unappreciated and barely accounted for.
When you get the opportunity to enter the room, don’t just sit at that table. It’s not enough. Move to the front row, at the top of the table, and dare to assert yourself as the leader that you are. It’s a difficult first step, especially when you may be the only one in the room, yet one that may spell a world of difference for yours and others’ success.
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Let your behavior dispel stereotypes
Stereotypes, such as the “angry black woman”, and other pre-conceived (and generally false) ideas about women of color, may not disappear any time soon. However, the most effective way to dispel them, and prove some of the myths and beliefs around women of color wrong, is through consistent, positive behavior.
While I was tempted to directly confront certain stereotypes in the course of my career, I came to understand that positive action is most effective.
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Be open to change!
Progress and growth require change. As women of color at work, our career paths may not always be predictable, for a host of obvious (and some not so obvious) reasons. To circumvent many of the barriers standing in the way of women’s leadership and advancement, we must learn to welcome and embrace change.
Whether that means saying yes to non-traditional opportunities, embarking on different career paths, or knowing when to forego comfort for growth, be open to change!
What other success rules can you share about being a woman of color in the corporate world?
To Your Success,
The Corporate Sis.
by Solange Lopes | Sep 5, 2017 | Career
Say Goodbye to Digital Eye Strain with Phonetic Eyewear: Review and Giveaway
Disclosure: The Corporate Sister has partnered with Phonetic Eyewear to review a pair of eyeglasses through the blog and on Instagram. We’re also hosting a giveaway for our readers to receive a free pair of Phonetic Eyewear glasses. Please note that this post contains an affiliate link and I may be compensated if your purchase a product through the link provided.
As a recovering Certified Public Accountant as well as a writer and entrepreneur, I spend quite a bit of time in front of the computer and smartphone. Actually, the running joke in the family is that my laptop is my third child, or possibly, my long-lost boyfriend. From crunching numbers during my corporate career to whipping up articles and e-books in my second life, dealing with digital eye strain is a given. It doesn’t help that I’ve also been wearing glasses and contact lenses for over two decades.
“Abby” Phonetic Eyewear Computer Glasses
When I came across Phonetic Eyewear at the BlogHer17 conference, I had to do a double take (no pun intended). A brand of glasses that offers relief from computer eye strain through prescription, non-prescription and reader glasses? A much-needed product for anyone exposed to the glare of computers on a constant basis. Even if you don’t work at a computer all day long, prolonged use of smartphones can also do a number on your eyes.As a working woman, I was also attracted to Phonetic Eyewear because of their stylish frames. It’s one thing to be relieved of digital eye strain at work and at home. It’s another (and better) thing to do so in style!
Phonetic Eyewear Computer Glasses
My red “Abby” Phonetic eyewear pair doesn’t just boast a special premium lens coating to deflect harmful blue and violet light. It also features a fabulous flared eye shape and some side bling to protect my eyes in style!
Sporting my red “Abby” Phonetic Eyewear Computer Glasses
The result? More productive days, and finally getting rid of those tired eyes that made me feel (and look) exhausted and worn out. It’s making a significant difference in my eye health, and also in the way I’m now able to work.
I’d love to share this opportunity with you, and that’s why I’ve partnered with Phonetic Eyewear to give away one pair of computer eyewear. In order to enter, follow the below rules on Instagram:
- Follow The Corporate Sister on Instagram
- Click on my Phonetic Eyewear Instagram Giveaway post and invite at least one friend by tagging them in the comments
- Follow Phonetic Eyewear on Instagram.
The giveaway will end on September 19th, 2017.
If you’re interested in purchasing a pair for yourself, you can save 10% by using code TCSISTER at this link.
I’m excited to share this amazing product with all of you, as I’m sure it will help you avoid digital eye strain while still enjoying the use of your digital tools.
Let me know your thoughts in the comments below, and good luck!
The Corporate Sis
by Solange Lopes | Sep 5, 2017 | Career
Workwear: Zippered Skirt Suit – Photo credit: lordandtaylor.com
Our Wear to Work feature presents various pieces of workwear at different price ranges and sizes.
This zippered skirt suit is a nice compromise between conventional and edgy. The zippered jacket adds an unexpected (and modern) touch, while the classic skirt silhouette is perfect for any corporate environment. It’s great to take to the interview, the boardroom meeting or even after-hours.
[Related: Seersucker Skirt Suit]
In a similar style, this crepe jacket and skirt suit set also boosts a sleek and smart look.
Zippered Skirt Suit
What pieces of workwear would you like us to feature? Email us at corporate@thecorporatesister.com!
This post contains affiliate links and The Corporate Sister may earn commissions for purchases through links in this post. Thank you!
To Your Success,
The Corporate Sis.
by Solange Lopes | Sep 5, 2017 | Career |
It’s that time during the interview process. It’s now your turn to ask your interviewer questions, and you may be fumbling to figure out what best inquiries to make.
In most interviews, if not all of them, your interviewer will expect you to have inquiries.
Aside from having your resume and being prepared to answer your interviewer’s questions, you should also have a list of questions to ask. These will help you assess the culture and expectations of your employer. At the same time, you will be able to highlight your skills, qualities and experience even further. Many employers are actually impressed by candidates who ask pertinent questions about the job, department and company at large.
[Related: 10 mental hacks to prepare for a successful interview]
As a matter of fact, not having any inquiries may make you look incompetent, or worse, unprepared. Plan ahead by bring with you a list of questions you can potentially ask your potential employer. This is not about overwhelming the interviewer with endless queries. Rather, you want to use these as a tool to determine if the company is a good fit for you, and present the many benefits you can bring to the company.
Having had my share of interviews, I’ve learnt early on that asking the right questions can make the difference between getting the job and missing the opportunity. Here are 52 suggested questions you should consider asking to ace the interview and assess your potential future job in the following categories:
About the Job and Expected Performance:
- What is expected of someone who would be in this position?
- What would you say are the responsibilities of this position?
- What is a typical day in this position?
- Who does this position report to?
- How many people work in this group/department?
- Is travel expected? If so, how much?
- Does the position require relocation?
- What are the typical work hours?
- What are the opportunities for growth/advancement?
- What are the biggest challenges of this job?
- Is there an on-boarding program? Could you please tell me about it?
- What are the most important tasks I should be focusing on during my first 90 days?
- What background would you say is best suited for this position?
- Is this a newly created position, or did the previous employee move on?
- Do you expect the requirements of this position to change in the next 6-12 months?
- Would I be working with a certain budget? If so, what type of budget?
- What are the most urgent projects I would need to address in this role should I get hired?
- Could you show me examples of projects I’d be working on if I were hired?
- What is the performance review process like?
- What metrics and goals will I be evaluated against?
About the Interviewer:
- How long have you been working in the company/department?
- How has your role changed/evolved over the years?
- Why did you decide to start working here?
- What do you like about your job in this department and company?
- What would you say are aspects that can be improved about this position and/or department/company?
About the Team:
- What can you tell me about the team I’ll be a part of?
- What are the team’s biggest strengths?
- What challenges is the team facing?
- How is the team expected to change in the next months? Do you expect to hire more people?
- Which other departments does this team work with?
About the Culture:
- How would you describe the culture of this company/department?
- What would you say are the company’s most important values?
- Would you say the work is usually more collaborative or independent?
- What are the typical team events that take place?
- Do you have a favorite office tradition here?
- What does the team usually do for lunch?
- What company events typically take place during the year? Are these joint events with other groups, departments or companies?
About the Company:
- I’ve read about the company, but could you please tell me about [pick a recent event or particular characteristic you’d like to discuss]
- What major changes have occurred at the company in the recent years?
- How is the company planning to grow and develop in the coming months and years?
- How would you describe the biggest rewards for working at this company?
- Where do you see this company in the next 5 years?
- What are you most excited about the company’s future?
About Professional Development Opportunities:
- What training programs are available in my position?
- Would I be able to attend training events and industry conferences on behalf of the company?
- If this is not a new position, where have previous employees who held this position progressed to?
About next steps to follow:
47.Is there anything you’re concerned about in terms of my background and experience?
48.What are the next steps in the interview process?
49.Would you like me to provide you with a list of references?
50.When can I expect to be hearing from you?
51.If I’m offered the job, how soon would I be expected to start?
52.Are there any other questions I can answer for you?
What else would you add to this list?
To Your Success,
The Corporate Sis.
by Solange Lopes | Sep 4, 2017 | Career
Workwear: Silk Dress – Photo credit: jcrew.com
Our Workwear feature presents various pieces of work-appropriate attire at different price ranges and sizes.
Nothing like a polished silk dress with a bow at the neck and a charming silk graphic diamond motif to transition your workwear from Summer to Fall. The Italian Ratti print is gorgeous on this classic and chic silhouette, perfect from work to the weekend. This dress is available at JCrew.
In a similar style, I also like this Ratti graphic diamond print skirt, also from JCrew. You can save 30% with the code YESPLEASE.
What pieces of workwear would you like us to feature? Email us at corporate@thecorporatesister.com!
This post contains affiliate links and The Corporate Sister may earn commissions for purchases through links in this post. Thank you!
To Your Success,
The Corporate Sis.
by Solange Lopes | Sep 4, 2017 | Find Your Purpose
If you’ve ever asked yourself what your purpose in life is, you may have unwittingly given yourself a headache. It’s one of those life-impacting questions that requires quite a bit of self-introspection and understanding of oneself. It’s also a question that so many of us avoid because it seems unrealistic, or downright, impossible to get the right answer for ourselves.
[Related: 30 Best Personality Assessments to find the Career you Want]
As I’ve been navigating through my own career journey, I’ve stumbled upon it quite a few times. While I was able to successfully sidestep it for years, It came a point in my life and career when I could no longer avoid it. The more I was faced with a growing sense of restlessness and impatience in my work, the more I was compelled to look within. The more I looked within, the more it was obvious that I needed to get clearer about my purpose.
As I went along my career journey, here are 7 questions I asked myself throughout my journey to find and get more clear about my purpose:
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What did you want to be when you grew up?
You know how as a kid, people will continually ask” What do you want to be when you grow up?” While this question makes many of us smile at the randomness of the answers we get from the mouths of babes, it actually may reveal more than we think. I came to understand that gifts, skills and talents are naturally placed in each and everyone of us, from the time we’re children. It’s those gifts and talents that usually are there to indicate a sense of purpose in our lives.
I’ve always loved to write. From an early age on, I would walk around with a notebook and pen in two, recording senseless stories about plants and insects. It’s a natural, God-given talent that has never left me, even decades later as I’ve switched paths to become a writer.
What You Should Do: Do you remember who you wanted to be when you grew up, even as a kid? Take a moment to do some self-introspection and go back to the careless days of your childhood. What did you answer to this question? Write it down in your journal and record those memories.
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What can you do that others find hard to do?
Whatever it is that you can do with ease while others struggle at, is the sign of a natural skill and talent. Can you whip up a 700-word article in a half-hour, while it takes everyone else around you two days to finish? Does investing come easy to you, while your friends don’t get the very basics of stocks and mutual funds?
Your purpose is always linked to something that you can do with more ease than most people. It’s easy to overlook these talents and skills that we may have for the very reason that they’re so natural for us. However, they’re indicative of areas we are gifted in and can use to make an impact.
What You Should D0: Grab your journal and make a list of those areas, skills and talents which come easy and natural to you. These don’t have to be career-related. Anything that you’re good at should go on this list.
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What do others seek your help in?
Are you the go-to-person your family, friends and colleagues come to when they need help with writing? Do people call you for investing, real estate or financial advice? Do your colleagues always come to you for graphic design advice?
One of the clear signs of your purpose is linked to those areas in which people seek your help and advice. Most times, others will recognize our purpose in us before we even do.
What You Should Do: Make an inventory of those things and areas you help people the most with. List them in the order of the frequency with which you help them most often.
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What would you do even if you weren’t paid for it?
This is one of the best Litmus tests to identify your purpose. What could you spend most of your time doing, even if you weren’t getting paid for it? For me, it was always writing and reading. My husband could cook and provide investing advice all day, for free.
Those activities that you wouldn’t mind doing for free are those that are linked to your purpose. Make sure to carefully recognize throughout your professional and personal journey.
What You Should Do: Think back about what you do on weekends and during your free time. The activities, skills and talents you use during these times are most likely linked to your purpose.
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How can you best help people?
Your purpose is first and foremost linked to helping people. By tapping into your specific talents and skills, and leveraging your abilities to the best, you can help people the most. If you’re wondering what your purpose, looking at ways in which you are best equipped to help people is a great indicator.
What You Should Do: Look back at instances when you were able to help people? What gifts and talents did you use? How did you manage to help them? How did you feel about helping them?
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Who are your role models in life?
The people you admire and want to emulate the most are also associated with your purpose. There’s a reason why you’re such a big fan of Oprah or Lebron James. These people display qualities, abilities, and strengths that are also charasteric to you.
It’s not about imitating others’ lives and successes, but rather about using them as guides and role models towards your purpose.
What You Should Do: Make a list of those people who you consider to be your role models. What attracts you about them? What qualities and talents would you like to emulate?
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How do you envision your life?
How do you see yourself living your ideal life? What would an ideal day, week, or year look like for you? Your purpose is meant to help you live your best, most fulfilling existence. However, it can only happen if you dare to dream big and imagine the life you were created to enjoy.
What You Should Do: Create a vision board on which you record images of what your ideal life would be. Take time to create the best vision and record it in your journal as well.
[Related: How to create a vision board]
Have you been wondering about your purpose? What steps have you been taking to find your purpose?
To Your Success,
The Corporate Sis.
by Solange Lopes | Sep 1, 2017 | Career
Workwear: Modern Denim Jacket – Photo credit: anntaylor.com
Our Workwear feature presents various pieces of work-appropriate attire at different price ranges and sizes.
There’s no closet staple more classic than the jean jacket. This modern denim jacket from Ann Taylor is perfect for casual Fridays into the weekend. The mandarin collar with frayed edges adds a touch of original to an otherwise classic, and very chic, workwear staple.
What pieces of workwear would you like us to feature? Email us at corporate@thecorporatesister.com!
This post contains affiliate links and The Corporate Sister may earn commissions for purchases through links in this post. Thank you!
