Chelese Perry, Founder and CEO of Chelese Perry Group is an ICF Certified Executive Coach, Life Coach and Leadership Consultant.
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As a former corporate executive, I've seen how leadership for Black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) women is more than a role; it's a transformative act of courage and resilience that drives industry-wide change. However, their journey to success often involves unique challenges that require unique problem-solving. To truly succeed, they must be empowered to take strategic action and show unwavering determination.
One of the most significant challenges BIPOC women face is navigating systemic bias and discrimination. This can manifest in various ways, including microaggressions, lack of opportunities and pay inequity. Additionally, societal expectations and stereotypes can create internalized barriers, leading to self-doubt and imposter syndrome. When the obstacles around us are taken too deeply to heart, they work against our progress.
To achieve their full potential, the first thing I do is invite my clients to reflect on three important questions:
1. What's within my control?
2. What's the opportunity here?
3. Who do I want to be on the other side of my leadership/career journey?
After reflection, we move into specific forward-thinking strategies so they can face obstacles with confidence. It begins by establishing boundaries and prioritizing self-care before attending to external matters.
Forward-Thinking Strategies For BIPOC Women
Know when to pause.
A potent strategy in my arsenal is teaching BIPOC women to set healthy boundaries. It's crucial to understand that taking breaks or delegating tasks doesn't signify inefficiency or weakness. Instead, it's an act of self-preservation, a testament to your wisdom in managing your energy and time, which ultimately prevents burnout.
Stay informed to improve negotiations.
Do you know the industry-standard salaries for your role and location? These stats are invaluable for salary negotiations and self-advocacy. Never underestimate your worth or the power you wield! You are worth so much, so be prepared to articulate your value confidently during pay and promotion discussions. Just remember the wisdom of Alice Walker: "The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don't have any."
Prioritize mental and emotional well-being and soul care.
The importance of maintaining physical and mental well-being in the face of challenges cannot be overstated. According to the American Psychological Association, self-care routines can significantly reduce work-related stress, fostering resilience and productivity. Also, seeking support from a professional counselor or coach can provide a valuable perspective as you navigate your personal and professional journeys.
This brings us to an often overlooked yet equally important aspect of well-being: soul care.
While self-care addresses physical, mental and emotional needs, soul care is an acknowledgment of our spiritual nature and our connection to a divine craftsman. Engaging in soul care means setting time aside for spiritual reflection and feeling the peace of knowing we are cherished, just as we are.
Make informed career choices.
When making career decisions, consider a potential employer's track record on diversity and inclusion to ensure your values align with your organization's culture. As my life and career have progressed, I've learned that this alignment is nonnegotiable. If values don't align, seek opportunities elsewhere.
I also advocate for diversifying career paths and exploring entrepreneurship. Corporate America is vast and opportunities abound across sectors—nonprofits, academia and consultancy, to name a few. Think about all the roles you could play and the impact you could make simply by changing your job.
Finally, if you're eager for something of your own, there's no time like the present to act. Your expertise and unique perspective could be the foundation for a successful business. African American women, especially, have seen a phenomenal rise in entrepreneurship.
Assert your value.
Keeping superiors regularly updated about your achievements isn't about self-promotion; it's about ensuring your contributions are recognized and valued. Moreover, your achievements aren't simply proof of your dedication and skills; they serve as powerful tools for your mentors and sponsors. By keeping them well-versed in your wins, you enable them to champion your career progress.
Remember the powerful words of Marianne Williamson: "Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure."
Address unprofessional behavior.
Reflecting on my journey as a young executive, I realize that I should've confronted several issues head-on instead of waiting for them to escalate. So my advice: Create a record of any inappropriate comments or actions so you have evidence. Accurate documentation creates a narrative of events, providing a base for any future discussions or actions.
Trusting your intuition in these circumstances is important—if something doesn't feel right, document it.
Commit to professional development.
Attend workshops, seminars and webinars to stay updated with emerging industry trends. Professional certifications are equally important, enhancing your résumé and showcasing a commitment to excellence in your area of expertise.
However, be mindful of your motivations for seeking certifications. If it's from a place of unworthiness, then another credential isn’t what you need. Recognize that you're already enough, and let your motivation to learn be fueled instead by your passion for excellence.
Harness the power of mentorship and community.
My personal experience underscores the importance of mentors and sponsors. Once, when a client attempted to derail my credibility, one of my sponsors came to my defense, and I believe her support was crucial in preserving my career.
Professional networks, especially those supporting BIPOC women, offer opportunities, resources and a sense of community. Align with groups that resonate with your values, and engage in purpose-driven interactions to open doors to unexpected opportunities.
As BIPOC women in leadership, embracing the myriad challenges we face isn't just about overcoming hurdles but about seizing them as opportunities for profound growth and self-discovery. Our journey is a testament to the enduring words of Maya Angelou: "We may encounter many defeats, but we must not be defeated." As we move forward into a new era of societal change, let's remember that the sky is never the limit—it's just the beginning.
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