This opinion piece was written by LaShawn Davis, MSHRM, SHRM-SCP, Founder & CEO, The HR Plug
In today’s corporate landscape, Black women face unique challenges, including a lack of acceptance, bias, and limited growth opportunities. However, leaving corporate America shouldn’t be the only solution. This article offers five crucial considerations for Black women before deciding to leave corporate America to pursue entrepreneurship due to exhaustion or lack of acceptance. Let’s dive into these 5 considerations:
Is “Building Your Own Table” Even an Option?
The notion of having to build one’s own table raises a crucial question: Why should Black women be responsible for creating opportunities due to the lack of acceptance they face? Starting from scratch means depleting personal funds to launch a vision, developing a business plan, and figuring out how to generate funds without risking financial instability. Is it fair to place the burden solely on the individual who has already experienced exclusion?
Instead of feeling compelled to build their own table, Black women should consider exploring other job opportunities where their talents and abilities are valued. The oversight of one company in acknowledging your worth should not overshadow the existence of other organizations that will appreciate and embrace what you bring to the table.
Have you Discovered Your Authentic Self?
Your goal is to become indispensable. Becoming indispensable occurs when you realize that you have created substantial value that would significantly impact the organization if you were to leave. The organization becomes reliant on your expertise, and they need you more than you need them. This recognition is evident when they actively approach you for promotion, create new positions tailored to you, or offer retention bonuses so they don’t lose you. Factors such as hairstyle, texture, color, piercings, or visible tattoos become inconsequential because your value overshadows any superficial judgments.
To thrive in corporate America, it is crucial to cultivate a deep understanding of who you are. This self-awareness serves as a building block for confidence, giving you the upper hand in navigating and negotiating in professional spaces. Understanding who you are empowers you to negotiate for equitable treatment, demand respect, and create boundaries that protect your well-being.
Do you Fully Understand the Benefits and Support Systems You’ll Lose?
Climbing the corporate ladder offers advantages like financial rewards, access to resources, and comprehensive benefits. Leaving these behind should be carefully considered, as entrepreneurship may not immediately provide similar stability and support.
Companies often provide retirement benefits, medical coverage, and life insurance, Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) among other important wellness benefits. These benefits may not be readily available when venturing into entrepreneurship. Placing the undue burden of acquiring and managing these benefits solely on yourself, simply because someone has treated you differently or undervalued your contributions, demands careful consideration. Before completely exiting corporate America, take stock of what you would be leaving behind.
Have You Explored What Leave of Absence Options You Qualify For?
Consider taking a leave of absence instead of completely exiting. Many corporate companies offer various leave options, ensuring job protection and income stability. Review your employer’s Summary Plan Description to understand the leave options available to you. Additionally, if a medical condition qualifies as a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and is impacting your ability to perform your job effectively, you can consider requesting a reasonable accommodation from your employer. Familiarize yourself with the accommodations available and engage in open communication to find a solution that supports your well-being and job performance. A minor adjustment could provide adequate relief.
If the corporate environment has had a detrimental impact on your mental well-being, consider seeking additional support and coping mechanisms. Prioritize your mental health and explore coping mechanisms like therapy, self-care practices, support networks, and holistic approaches. Remember, no job is worth compromising your well-being.
Final Consideration: Is Leaving Corporate America Right For You?
Black women facing a lack of acceptance and exhaustion in corporate America have a range of considerations to explore before making the decision to leave altogether. Rather than succumbing to the pressures and challenges, embracing authenticity, recognizing your worth, and advocating for fair treatment are powerful tools to explore before deciding to quit, having to start from scratch.
Other articles in the Career section:
Former Corporate Engineer Turned Entrepreneur: Elizabeth Davis Shares Tips On How To Pivot
It’s Time To Shift The Global Perception of African American Women
Bad Day Right Job or Just The Wrong Job?
How To Not Leave Money On The Table When Negotiating: Kandice Guice
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