The "Equality" myth at work!

Dear 22 year old me:

The idea that talent and hard work are the sole keys to success is a "seductive" one. But the reality is more complex. Social factors like race, gender, and access to networks can play a huge role in how far you advance in your career.

Many organizations pride themselves on being meritocratic, promoting the best person for the job. But if everyone they hire and promote comes from a similar background, are they really getting the best? This narrow approach overlooks the vast potential of a diverse workforce.

But wait what exactly is Meritocracy?

Meritocracy is the idea that people are rewarded based on their abilities and talents, rather than their social class, wealth, or background. In a perfect meritocracy, the most qualified person gets the job, promotion, or other opportunity.

But as most of us are aware this is rarely the situation these days. I honestly don't believe that it always has a sinister motive. Most of us just prefer to work with people we get along with.

It's the way we pick our friends and the people we want to give the majority of our time. its human nature. So that said, there is truth in the sinister aspect of this as well.

So how do you move ahead in this "fair" system?

Well the answer isn't as straight forward as we would hope however, here's what I have learned.

1. Differentiate between the sinister and non-sinister situations. Don’t assume everyone is out to get you. Prejudging others can create the very situation you want to avoid. Get the full story before pointing fingers or making accusations. Not everything that glitters is gold, so value your attention and don't give it away easily. Be cautious but also fair in your judgments.
2. Understand the difference between facts and truth. Things don't always work as they should. Many managers don’t promote or reward based on policy alone; they rely on their instincts and experiences. Know the facts, but understand the reality of the situation. Recognize that decisions are often influenced by personal biases, relationships, and the broader organizational culture. Navigating this complex landscape requires both awareness and adaptability.
3. Avoid unrealistic expectations. We often get offended when people don’t meet our expectations. We have ideas of how our careers should look, but these rarely factor in other people's plans and the unpredictability of life. Manage your expectations and remain flexible. Accept that setbacks and detours are part of the journey, and use them as learning opportunities.
4. Take initiative. Don’t wait for things to happen; make them happen. If the path doesn’t exist, pave it yourself. Find opportunities and chase them down. Network actively, seek mentors, and continuously develop your skills. Be proactive in seeking out projects and roles that align with your career goals, and don't be afraid to take calculated risks.
5. Set up a board of directors for your career. Find a group of people you trust to give you fair and honest advice. These mentors and advisors can provide valuable perspectives, support, and guidance as you navigate your career. Choose individuals from diverse backgrounds to gain a well-rounded view and avoid echo chambers.

Well that's it,

It's not an exact science but we have to start somewhere

Sincerely Paul