How to Excel at Work and in Life as a Black Person | by Natalia Nicholson

As a black person, I know that we can sometimes feel like the odd ones out in the workplace and beyond. We're often the only person of colour in the room, and we may feel like we have to work twice as hard to prove ourselves or adopt our natural look and culture to “fit in”.

For instance, while I was growing up, I often found myself the target of teasing and bullying by my classmates, and surprisingly teachers, because of the colour of my skin and afro hair and the fact I was a completely different shade of brown to my Mum. I never remember feeling connected in secondary school either. I was the third person in the only ethnic group out of 60 pupils in my year. I did not belong to a group or “community.” (During that time, London was not the cultural melting pot you can see today.) My teenage self longed for a best friend that was a girl that I could have formed a sisterhood with but there was none. 

Despite these disheartening experiences, I am thankful to my parents who instilled in me a strong sense of self-worth. They taught me that I am just as good as anyone else, no matter what other people might say or think. Thanks to their support, I am able to face the world with confidence, knowing that I am just as deserving of happiness and success as anyone else. Today, I am proud to be a successful entrepreneur and digital marketing coach for Multiverse who is helping apprentices from all different backgrounds achieve success through digital marketing. I am living proof that black people can excel in both work and life, regardless of the challenges we may face.

Here's how I did it and how you too, as a black man/woman, can excel in your apprenticeship and beyond.

1. Maintain positive self-talk and self-image about being black

The accomplishments of black people have often been overlooked throughout history. But the reality is that black people are just as capable as anyone else of achieving great things. We are doctors, lawyers, artists, scientists, entrepreneurs, and so much more. We have made significant contributions to every field and discipline, and we continue to do so every day. Our achievements should be celebrated, not because we are black, but because we are human beings who have overcome tremendous odds to succeed. Just look at the trans-Atlantic slave trade. It's important to also help your peers in your cohort that may struggle with this and be their ally when you see other underrepresented groups struggling. 

2. Develop a strong work ethic

A strong work ethic is not only about working hard. It's also about being punctual, reliable, and professional. When employers see that an employee has a strong work ethic, they are more likely to invest in that person and give them opportunities for advancement. For black people, developing a strong work ethic can be the key to unlocking doors of opportunity. Of course, a strong work ethic alone is not enough to guarantee success. But it is an important foundation upon which black people can build their careers and their lives and will be invaluable in completing your apprenticeship successfully.

3. Build your network

Networking is one of the most important things you can do to set yourself up for success. When you have influential people in your network, for instance, you have access to opportunities and resources that you otherwise wouldn't. You also have people who can vouch for your character and abilities, which can open doors that would otherwise be closed. Networking can also help you to develop relationships with people who can provide mentorship and guidance. These relationships can be invaluable as you navigate your way through life. Make sure you are making use of the mentoring and community network here at Multiverse.

4. Dress for success

First impressions are important, and if you want to be taken seriously, it's important to dress for success. This doesn't mean that you need to wear a formal dress or a suit and tie 24/7, but it does mean being conscious of the images you project. Are you neat and well-groomed? Do you dress appropriately for the situation? Are you conveying confidence and competence? These are all important factors to consider when dressing for success, especially when showing up for group training and coaching within your apprenticeship, having your camera on goes a long way to making a great impression on your coach and managers. However, be true to your authentic self and style because you are beautiful inside and out!

5. Stay positive in the face of adversity

As a black person, you face unique challenges that other groups don't. You're already at a disadvantage from the moment you're born, and the deck is heavily stacked against you. Nevertheless, it's important to stay positive in the face of adversity.  When you stay positive, it shows in everything you do – from your body language to your attitude. And people will take notice. So whenever you feel yourself getting bogged down by negativity, take a deep breath and remind yourself of how far you’ve come! Also lean on others in your cohort to lift you up and also be a pillar of support for others, remember teamwork makes the dream work!

Being a black person is not easy. You have to deal with racism, discrimination, and microaggressions on a daily basis. It can be exhausting and demoralising, but you can't let it get to you. Be a part of the multiverse community and contribute to content, let your voice and experiences be heard so others can relate and have someone else to identify with. 

You can always excel in work and life by making a decision to be your best self. You can choose to persevere through tough times, you can choose to get an education and make something of yourself, and you can choose to be a force for good in your community. Make this opportunity here at Multiverse one that is life-changing and be that apprentice that is remembered and goes on to bigger and better things. 

When you make the decision to succeed, nothing can stop you. So whatever challenges you may face, remember that you always have the power to overcome them.

Natalia Nicholson is a Digital Marketing Coach at Multiverse.