Mansplained and no room for mediocre!

Ah, mansplained!

Mansplaining - the art of being condescendingly enlightened by someone who thinks they know more than you do, just because they happen to be of the male persuasion.?

Oh, the joy of having your own experiences and expertise dissected and repackaged for you in a neat little mansplainer-approved package!

After all, where would we be without these enlightening insights?

Probably getting things done a lot faster!!

Don’t say anything

I have often felt intimidated in meetings when surrounded entirely by men or when I am the only person of colour.

“I listen carefully, think I am going to say something and I think, ‘No it’ll sound stupid.’?

And, then I don’t say anything.?

Then some man says it and everybody thinks it’s brilliant.?

And, then I am really mad at myself for not saying anything!!!

Because I am too busy in my head running the checklist;

"be assertive, but not too assertive"

"be confident but not too confident"

"Say something helpful, don't react'

Sound familiar?

Suddenly you find yourself caught in a whirlwind of patronising explanations and unnecessary clarifications.

I think every woman at some time in her career has struggled to speak out confidently, aiming for the Goldilocks delivery of "just right"

However, when you are the first or only one in a seat at the table, this can feel even more intense, like walking a tightrope!!!

And, I am a pro at the subtle art of code-switching. Moving between corporate lingo and my natural, unfiltered self!

Oh, and did I mention hair??

Don't even get me started on the hair!?

While navigating through the jungle of double standards.

Trying to keep our afros, braids, or whatever fabulous style we're rocking that day looking professional can feel like a full-time job in itself.?

But hey, we're not afraid of a little extra hustle - we'll make it work, and we'll look fabulous doing it!

6 reasons why black women have no room for Mediocre

Here are some of the nuances experienced by black women, who more than often have zero room to be mediocre, especially if occupying the solo seat or using the plastic cutlery;

1. Historical Discrimination: Black women have faced historical discrimination and systemic barriers in corporate environments. This discrimination has limited their access to opportunities for advancement and recognition, making it essential for them to excel to overcome these obstacles.
2. Intersectional Bias: Black women face intersectional bias, meaning they encounter discrimination based on both their race and gender. This double bind can exacerbate the challenges they face in corporate settings, as they must navigate and overcome stereotypes and biases related to both their race and gender.
3. Limited Representation: Black women are often underrepresented in leadership positions and decision-making roles within corporate organisations. This lack of representation can perpetuate stereotypes and biases, making it even more challenging for black women to break through and succeed.
4. Higher Standards: Black women are often held to higher standards than their white counterparts. They must consistently perform at an exceptional level to be recognised and rewarded for their contributions, facing scrutiny and scepticism that their white colleagues may not experience to the same degree.
5. Stereotypes and Micro-aggressions: Black women may also face stereotypes and microaggressions in the workplace, such as assumptions about their competence, intelligence, or demeanor. These negative perceptions can undermine their confidence and hinder their professional development.
6. Structural Inequities: Corporate structures and practices may perpetuate inequities that disadvantage black women, such as biased hiring and promotion processes, unequal access to resources and mentorship, and disparities in pay and benefits.

Thrive, shine & rise above it

Black women continue to break barriers, shatter ceilings, and make our mark on the corporate world despite the obstacles

So, watch out because mediocre??

That's one label that definitely doesn't fit us!

So, to all the mansplainers out there, with your unwavering confidence and unwarranted explanations,

We are dealing with a lot, navigating multiple layers of bias, so I am sharing this diagram to help with the gender aspect.

Please feel free to use it daily and take it to all your meetings.

We feel better and work more effectively when we feel valued xx

Mansplaining may seem like a trivial issue in isolation, but how we communicate tells other people how much or little they are valued.

If you are a people leader and recognise you could do more to create an inclusive culture during #IWD and beyond, especially to inspire black women into leadership. Let's connect here

Inspire Black Women into Leadership

I am really proud and excited Benevolent Health will be partnering with GatenbySanderson to celebrate women's achievements and raise awareness about discrimination, focused on black women in leadership. Register here

Bitesize weekly content! We hope you have enjoyed it. See you next week x

PS If you want to hang out.?Kinship is a Safe Space for Diverse Women. The First Friday of every month. Allies are welcome! Register here