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21 min

Industry Conference Networking

Strategies for overcoming systemic barriers and building a successful career while staying authentic.

DMJ

Dr. Maya Johnson

DEI Consultant

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Understanding Systemic Barriers

Awareness of systemic challenges helps you develop strategies to navigate them.

Common Barriers

  • Bias in hiring and promotion decisions
  • Lack of representation in leadership
  • Microaggressions and exclusionary culture
  • Unequal access to sponsors and mentors
  • Higher performance standards and scrutiny

The Extra Work

  • Code-switching and adapting to dominant culture
  • Being asked to represent your entire group
  • Unpaid DEI labor and emotional tax
  • Constantly proving yourself despite credentials

About the Author

DMJ

Dr. Maya Johnson

DEI Consultant

Dr. Johnson advises Fortune 500 companies on diversity strategy and coaches underrepresented professionals.

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