Reminders from Corporate America...
Navigating the Corporate Maze with Authenticity
The more I navigate the corporate world, the more lessons I've added to my master playbook. Surviving corporate environments is like competing in an amazing race that most of us didn't know we signed up for—or we signed up hoping to win but encountered unnecessary challenges along the way.
And winning? Well, that's subjective 🙄.
As a person of color, these challenges can double. Companies often aren’t playing by the same rule book when it comes to equity and access. Let’s be real: the playing field isn’t level. Navigating these spaces requires more than just talent—it takes awareness, strategy, and resilience.
BUT such is corporate life in many environments. The best we can do is take those learnings and let them serve us on the paths we choose.
So, after years of moving through corporate spaces and experiencing the highs and lows, I’m sharing a few reminders from my own playbook:
Own Your Authenticity as a Standard. It takes inner work, but the result is being yourself on purpose. In a culture where the status quo is expected, leaning into your authenticity is refreshing. Don't let others keep you in a box or define who you are. Embrace YOU and leave behind what doesn't serve you.
Be Your Own Brand First. When everything is said and done—from company to company or industry to industry—you will still have your name, your brand, and who you are to lead with. Build that up!
Be in the Driver's Seat of Your Career. From the moment you join an organization, take control of your role, your goals, and your expectations. Communicate with your manager and team to support you in accomplishing those goals. Regardless of their performance review structure, it's important to establish your own cadence for check-ins and reviews to ensure expectations are being met. Blindsided surprises at work are not fun.
PTSD at Work Is a Real Thing. Often, we move from one environment to another without acknowledging, working through, and starting to heal from the past. Don't be alarmed when triggers occur in a new environment. Be prepared to recognize them, work through them, and most of all, give yourself the grace you deserve in the process. Remember, environments are created by the people who lead them, and most people leave managers, not jobs. The next environment may be better or worse, but understanding what toxicity looks like to you based on your experiences is important.
Network Up and Across. It takes more than just connecting to build your social capital. Cultivation is key to building an authentic and valuable network where mutual value is earned. If you lean into cultivation the right way, you can trust that your network will become your net worth.
Advocate for Yourself Always! This is a muscle many have to exercise, but ensure your voice is heard—especially as it relates to your work ethic, character, and accomplishments. It won't always be comfortable, but if you won't advocate for yourself, who will?
Check out some additional insights from others who have gems to share on navigating corporate life:
🎙️ Into Podcasts? Check out Non-Corporate Girl’s episode: Season 3, Ep 69 | PTSD @ Work
📕 Feel Like Reading More? See what my good bro and favorite blogger, Jamari Fox, has to share in a recent post.
🤳🏾 Love a Good Reel? Check out Roxy Couse advice to Black women in their 20s.
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