Starting a new job or building a career is exciting, but also be incredibly stressful. When you’re a person of color, that stress can come with extra layers. You might be the only one in the room who looks like you, or you might find yourself dealing with awkward comments and subtle biases that are hard to put a finger on.

Navigating the workplace is a skill, and when you add race into the mix, it requires a whole other level of strategy and resilience. This isn't about changing who you are to fit in. It’s about learning how to protect your energy, advocate for yourself, and build a career where you can thrive authentically.

So, how do you handle the unique challenges that come with being a person of color in a professional space? Let’s talk about some of the common hurdles and the practical steps you can take to overcome them.

The Reality of Microaggressions

Microaggressions are those small, subtle, and often unintentional comments or actions that communicate a negative or hostile message about your identity. They can be disguised as compliments, like "You're so articulate," or they can be assumptions, like someone constantly mixing you up with the only other Black or Brown person in the office.

Individually, they might seem small. But over time, they stack up and can seriously impact your confidence and sense of belonging. So, what can you do when you experience one?

  • Assess the Situation: Not every comment requires a response. Sometimes, the best move for your mental health is to let it go. Ask yourself: Is this a person I have to work with closely? Is this a pattern of behavior? Is it worth my energy to address it right now?
  • Ask a Question: If you decide to respond, you don’t have to be confrontational. A simple, curious question can be powerful. For example, if someone makes a comment about your hair, you could ask, "What did you mean by that?" or "What prompted you to say that?" This puts the other person in a position to reflect on their words without you having to accuse them of anything.
  • Share Your Perspective: If you feel safe and comfortable, you can state how the comment made you feel. Use "I" statements, such as, "I know you probably didn't mean it this way, but when you said that, it made me feel uncomfortable." This focuses on your experience rather than their intent.

Remember, your feelings are valid. Dealing with microaggressions is exhausting, so prioritize your well-being above all else.

Finding Your People: The Power of a Network

When you’re underrepresented in your workplace, it's easy to feel isolated. That’s why building a strong support system, both inside and outside of your company, is not just nice to have—it’s essential.

Find a Mentor

A mentor is someone who can guide you, offer advice, and advocate for you when you’re not in the room. This person doesn't necessarily have to look like you, but it can be incredibly helpful to find a mentor who understands the unique challenges you face as a person of color.

  • Look for Employee Resource Groups (ERGs): Many companies have ERGs for employees from different backgrounds (e.g., Black Professionals Network, Latinx Alliance). These groups are a great place to connect with senior leaders who could become mentors.
  • Be Proactive: Don't be afraid to reach out to someone you admire. Send them a polite email asking for a 15-minute virtual coffee chat to learn about their career journey. People are often willing to help.

Build Your Squad

Your squad is your peer group—the people you can vent to, celebrate wins with, and get real-world advice from. These are the friends and colleagues who just get it.

  • Connect with Peers: Make an effort to build relationships with other people of color in your company. Having allies who understand your experiences can make a huge difference in your day-to-day work life.
  • Join Professional Organizations: Look for industry-specific organizations for professionals of color. Groups like the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) or the Association of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA) offer amazing networking opportunities.

Building Confidence and Beating Impostor Syndrome

Impostor syndrome is that nagging feeling that you’re a fraud and you’re going to be found out at any moment. It’s common for everyone, but it can be amplified when you’re in a space where you feel like you have to work twice as hard to prove you belong.

  • Track Your Accomplishments: Keep a "brag file." This is a document or folder where you save positive feedback, list your achievements, and note the skills you’ve learned. When you’re feeling down on yourself, review this file to remind yourself of how capable you are.
  • Speak Up in Meetings: Your voice and perspective are valuable. Make it a goal to contribute at least one comment or question in every meeting. It doesn’t have to be a groundbreaking idea. It can be as simple as agreeing with someone and adding a small detail. The more you do it, the more natural it will feel.
  • Focus on Learning, Not Perfection: You're not expected to know everything. Frame challenges as learning opportunities rather than tests of your abilities. This mindset shift can reduce the pressure to be perfect and allow you to grow with more confidence.

Know When and How to Advocate for Yourself

Self-advocacy is about speaking up for your needs, your contributions, and your career growth. This can be intimidating, especially when you’re worried about being seen as "difficult" or "aggressive"—a stereotype that women of color, in particular, often face.

  • Come with Data: When you’re asking for a raise, a promotion, or a spot on a high-profile project, back up your request with evidence. Use your brag file to highlight your specific contributions and show the value you bring to the company.
  • Practice Your Pitch: Rehearse what you want to say with a trusted friend or mentor. This will help you feel more confident and articulate when you have the actual conversation with your manager.
  • Set Boundaries: Your time and energy are valuable. It’s okay to say no to extra tasks that don’t align with your career goals or to projects that put an unfair burden on you to be the "diverse" voice. Setting boundaries is a crucial part of protecting your well-being.

Bring Your Authentic Self to Work

The most important piece of advice is this: you belong. You were hired for your skills, your talent, and your unique perspective. Don’t feel like you have to code-switch or hide parts of your identity to succeed. Your authenticity is your strength.