Decoding Corporate Practices: Empowering Professionals of Color in the Workplace | S4E4

Collin Bailey and Adriana Dawson discuss the barriers that exist for first-generation professionals and people of color in corporate environments.

They emphasize the importance of decoding corporate practices to empower and retain professionals of color.

They highlight the need for macro messaging, cultural fluency, and the creation of a sense of belonging within organizations. Bailey suggests that leaders should challenge their direct reports to create initiatives that drive cultural fluency and improve products. Dawson recommends that leaders start using the term "cultural fluency" and make it a priority in their organizations.
About The Guests:

• Collin Bailey: Former Chief Transformation Officer and Acting Chief Technology Officer for Hudson's Bay Company. Adjunct Professor of Law and Member of the Board of Directors at Roger Williams University School of Law.
• Adriana Dawson: Community Engagement Director for Verizon Social Impact and Marketing Expansion Entrepreneur. Co-host of the podcast "Keeping It 100%".

CHAPTERS
00:02:03 | Jeff Lackey introduces Adriana and Collin as his guests.
00:02:45 | Adriana shares her background and interest in decoding corporate environments.
00:05:07 | Collin discusses his career journey and passion for empowering professionals of color.
00:12:31 | Defining decoding corporate practices and cultural fluency
00:17:36 | Barriers faced by first generation professionals and the need for support
00:19:54 | Leveraging cultural fluency for innovation and engagement
00:21:06 | Personal experiences and examples of navigating corporate practices
00:25:38 | Colin's mentee faced credit-taking by more senior colleague
00:32:20 | Cultural fluency defined as having cultural translators and brokers
00:36:19 | Coaching and development should be accessible to high-potential employees.
00:42:03 | Employee resource groups provide market intelligence and retention opportunities.
00:46:58 | Lack of leveraging opportunities and sense of belonging
00:49:23 | Business imperative of cultural fluency for market relevance
00:50:01 | Macro messaging and vulnerability in valuing diversity
00:56:10 | Providing access and visibility to diverse talent internally and externally
01:00:11 | Diverse professionals often fear failure due to scarcity mindset.
01:02 | Adriana Dawson suggests using the term "cultural fluency" and making it a priority.
01:03:38 | Adriana advises assessing current culture and setting goals for diversity.
01:05:14 | Colin Bailey challenges CEOs to create initiatives for cultural fluency.
01:06:56 | Closing
 ________________________________________________________________________________
If you enjoyed this episode or any of our episodes, please be sure to subscribe and leave us a review in the podcast app.

We'd love to hear from you. Connect with us on LinkedIn to leave feedback.

Watch the episode, clips, and other bonus content on YouTube.

To access bonus content, information about the guest, and links to materials discussed, go to our website: https://www.gybwp.com

Special thanks to all those who encouraged me to do this podcast, with a special thanks to my son Jeffrey who challenged/inspired me to do this podcast, Vinnie and Emmett who have helped to post and promote it, and Aubrey who has provided me with good, constructive feedback along the way! Love, Dad