Be The Change You Want To See In Business

By Business Desk

Wednesday, May 10, 2017.

Going far in the workplace isn’t easy if you’re from a minority group. You only have to look at the big faces of business to realize that most of them are white, middle-class males. Women, black faces, and those with disabilities lack representation when it comes to high-flying jobs. It’s easy to get disheartened if you have dreams of making it big. After all, if you’re up against such adversity, is there any point trying? In truth, though, you should see that as a reason to try even harder. As well as improving your situation by going far, you could become a leading face for others trying to do the same.

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But, you can’t ignore the struggle ahead. Sometimes, getting a job can be hard enough. Despite what the majority like to believe, discrimination in the workplace is still rife. And with old sentiments about race and the role of women emerging again, things look set to get worse. Sometimes, your name on a resume will be enough to turn a potential employer against you. And, if you do get the role, you’ll find it a struggle to get your voice heard. If your face doesn’t fit, a company will do everything possible to keep you off the front lines.

One way to overcome the problem is to show your company you mean business. It may not seem fair, but credentials can take you far. While someone with privilege may not need qualifications to get where they want, the same can’t always be said for the rest of us. It may be worth turning to something like an online mba program and studying while you work your way up. That way, you have a firm footing to turn to if someone tries to stand in your way. Plus, it’s a sure way to give yourself an edge. If you’re qualified, people are less likely to rule you out based on what they perceive of your appearance.

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The chances are that you may grow disheartened. Is it any wonder? Injustices like these are enough to make anyone angry. But, it’s crucial that you keep going. Even if you get knocked back for one job, there are plenty more. One fantastic way to give yourself a boost is to look to others who have achieved amazing things against adversity. Gaining inspiration in this way is sure to keep you going. Look at Martin Luther King, Frederick Douglass, and Barack Obama. All have achieved incredible change, even when the world seemed against them. There’s no reason you can’t do the same. Research such figures online, and see what they have to say about their struggle.

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And, when you do get lucky,  champion other people from minority groups. Once you’re up with the high and mighty, you may get swept into a certain way of thinking. Don’t let it happen. Make a conscious effort to employ those with the odds against them. It’s the best way to be the change you want to see.