Building A Better Workplace for Black Employees

To support black employees, business leaders must challenge biases and help employees be themselves. Leaders can demonstrate care for employees of color by supporting them across multiple layers of identity — from their racial identities to other specific individual needs. Centering and uplifting employees and communities of color can define our organizational footprints for generations to come. Doing so has always been important; it is more urgent now than ever before.

Be intentional and reach out to black employees. Managers should place a special emphasis on connecting with black employees to show that the employer is trying to understand the issues they may be facing and to reinforce that they are supported in the workplace. Engagement is not always easy, and some employees may push back and say, 'You've never talked to me before. Why are you talking to me now?’ In those situations, leaders need to be willing to humble themselves, let the employee know that he or she is valued and appreciated, and affirm that the employee has a safe place to voice concerns.

​Provide supplemental support options and encourage employees to use them. Send out semi-regular reminders about the resources your organization offers. One of these communications may prove to be a lifeline for an employee who is struggling. If your company offers mental health services, anticipate workers' questions. Detail the cost to the employee and give other pertinent details. Is there a website that lists suggested providers? Are there telehealth options? Depending on the needs of the company's employees, small support groups may be able to play a role. These meetings should be a safe space where workers can talk about their experiences or just listen. If a manager or other organizational leader attends these meetings, they can also serve as a place for employees to ask questions and make suggestions.  

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