Navigating Culture - October

Welcome to Country Navigator’s October newsletter.

A few years ago, a close friend of mine landed a senior recruiter position in a tech recruitment agency. During one of her earliest team meetings, the team leader delivered guidance on approaching client calls. The scene seemed promising as he praised their male colleague for his powerful and trustworthy voice, urging him to leverage it with clients. "What a supportive leader," she thought.

However, in the blink of an eye, the focus shifted to their two female colleagues, accompanied by a different type of praise.

"And you two are very beautiful girls; people appreciate speaking with someone beautiful like you."

Microaggressions are subtle, indirect expressions of racism, sexism, ageism, or ableism. Often imperceptible at first, their impacts are profound, even if the recipient doesn't realize it until later.

THE SILENT UNDERMINING

? “You're so articulate.”: Implying surprise that a person of color can speak well. ? "But where are you really from?": Suggesting that the person, due to their appearance, doesn't truly belong in their own country.

? ''Don’t mind my OCD’’, ‘’The weather is so schizophrenic’’ or ‘’You’re acting so ADHD’’: Demonstrating insensitivity to those dealing with these conditions’

? Ignoring or avoiding a colleague with a disability, using patronizing language, or labeling their disability as "inspiring" implying that it's miraculous they've achieved the same expectations as their able-bodied peers.

? Referring to your female colleague as "sweetheart" or asking, "When are you going to have children?" perpetuating a broader societal message that their primary role is to have children.

Microaggressions may appear innocent or unintentional, yet they contribute to an uncomfortable and potentially toxic workplace. They sustain stereotypes, biases, and discrimination, harming both individuals and the overall work environment. In fact, some argue that microaggressions are a significant factor causing employees to fear the end of the "work from home" era.

‘’So, we just can’t say anything?’’

For those who are still wondering if we should simply stop speaking altogether – the answer is clear: no, we should address them.

ADDRESSING MICROAGGRESSIONS

Creating an inclusive and welcoming workplace requires action:

? Challenge stereotypes and biases: Scrutinize your selection processes to focus on abilities and expertise rather than superficial factors.

? Redefine leadership traits: Emphasize leadership traits such as empathy, self-awareness, and cultural intelligence.

? Acknowledge and appreciate: Recognize colleagues for their skills and qualifications, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or other characteristics.

A PATH TO HEALTHIER WORKPLACE

Acknowledging and addressing microaggressions is a crucial step toward fostering a more respectful and inclusive work environment. The responsibility lies with each of us to create a space where diversity is celebrated, and everyone is valued for their unique contributions.

Let's break the silence on microaggressions and work together to pave the way for a more equitable and supportive workplace. Your voice can make a significant difference.

LET'S WORK ON IT TOGETHER

Join us for our free masterclass ‘’Back to Basics - Managing Microaggressions’’ on November 9 at 16:00 CET. Gain actionable tips and suggestions to avoid microaggressions and learn how to repair relationships when a microaggression occurs.

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