The Integrity of Relationships in Race Relations

I think it’s fair to say that the first half of 2020 has been quite memorable. We’ve experienced a series of events that have left a lot of us filled with so many emotions, thoughts, and opinions. The most recent heightened event involved the unfortunate death of George Floyd, triggered a world-wide protest and outcry for justice and humanity through a variety of actions deemed favorable and unfavorable. Many of us took the time to process and go through the motions on our personal time. But how does one manage these feelings within the workplace? Here are some things to consider to create and/or maintain workplace integrity and cohesion:

Maintain a tactic of good intentions. Focus on being human and being genuine. Empathy is a well-respected trait that goes a long way. The key is to be open to different perspectives. 

Check on your Black staff. This also includes other staff of color. Take the time to listen to them, learn about their experiences, particularly within the workplace but also in general. The recent events could have been a significant trigger that not only affected your staff personally, but professionally. The healthier your they feel, the more productive they are. Therefore, their matter is your matter. Check in, then listen.   

Evaluate the workplace climate. Learn how the perceptions of your team within the present moment (and in the past) have affected the working environment. Is there any tension or awkwardness? Identify if there have been any long standing issues due to misunderstandings, microaggressions, and/or discriminations that may have occurred that you are unaware of.  

…then create a healthier one if needed be. Evaluate what your company will tolerate and not tolerate and adjust accordingly.

Leaders, don’t be afraid to lead. Directly do the work and personally connect with your staff. Wellness starts at the top and one of the most genuine things that the leader of a company or business can do is step out and step up. Avoid hiring or asking others to do it. If support is needed, seek out individual support for yourself to identify strategies.  

Stay optimistic. The great thing about unfortunate circumstances is that if desired, they can bring positive outcomes and lessons. Learn and grow from them. Although there are many elements that exist that we cannot control, for the ones that we can, do so in the best way that you can.

We’d be happy to assist and support you. In the meantime, be well. 

-The Consulting Firm