Around the Web: Ellevate presents 10 Rules of Success for Women of Color at Work

"Keep showing up, persevering and demonstrating your best efforts. While your work may go unnoticed at times, it’s important to consistently show up and bring your best contribution to the table." - Solonge Lopes

Ellevate.com published an article written by Solange Lopes, CPA providing career advice for Women of Color at work. Here are a few of our favorite excerpts:

Stop being afraid of being yourself.

"Most people in the corporate world wear a mask. It’s just a fact. However, for women of color at work, wearing a mask has many times been a necessity. According to studies by the Center for Women Policy, 21% of women of color do not think they can be themselves at work. Another 28 to 44% believe they must downplay their ethnicity to increase their chances of success at work.

While this is still the reality in many, if not most, corporate environments, authenticity is still the best way to change the dialogue about women of color at work. The more we hide behind our corporate masks, the less we can bring focus on the actual issues faced by women of color at work."

Get used to being uncomfortable.

"Being a woman of color at work rhymes with being uncomfortable. Not only are there very few other women of color in the room, but our lack of representation can also make it challenging for others to understand the struggles we may face.

However, being uncomfortable is also an advantage. The more uncomfortable you are, the more prepared you tend to be. Getting used to uncomfortable and challenging environments is also the key to being innovative and a high performer."

Mentor another woman of color.

"In general, women need more mentors in the workplace. While no one woman’s experience is the same as the next, there are similar themes in the challenges we face. As women in general, and women of color in particular, it’s our responsibility to mentor one another. It’s another way to keep that door of opportunity open for those coming behind us, and to better our work environments with each generation of women leaders."

Don’t just sit at the table, move to the front of the room.

"When you get the opportunity to enter the room, don’t just sit at that table. It’s not enough. Move to the front row, at the top of the table, and dare to assert yourself as the leader that you are. It’s a difficult first step, especially when you may be the only one in the room, yet one that may spell a world of difference for yours and others’ success."

Check out the full article here: 10 Rules of Success for Women of Color at Work

Lex Reflects: Today, I needed the quote at the beginning of this post. Keeping up with the pace of a high intensity corporate career can be challenging, especially around the holiday season when the demands of home can sometimes be augmented. I am re-committing myself to bringing my best to the office. Please share your most impactful takeaway from the article in the comments.