Guide

Guide

Guide

Navigating Bias and Microaggressions at Work: The Black Employee’s Survival Guide

The Onyx Truth is, these biases don't just show up in offhanded comments—some of the same people making these lame comments could also be responsible for your performance reviews, team dynamics, and promotion decisions

Desy Osunsade

Global HR Leader

Spotting Bias in the Workplace

Navigating a predominantly white workplace comes with its own set of special, let’s just say challenges. I don’t know about you but dealing with implicit bias and microaggressions is at the very top of my ‘I can’t’ list.  Whether it’s the surprise at your professionalism, the unsolicited hair touching, or the "Oh, you’re so articulate!" comments, we’ve all been there. So how do you handle it without losing your s*!#?  Let’s break it down.

First, let’s be really clear, these biases don't just show up in offhanded comments—some of the same people making these lame comments could also be responsible for your performance reviews, team dynamics, and promotion decisions. Now they’re messing up your money and your career. 

Keep an eye out for:

  • Performance Reviews That Feel Off – Are you getting vague feedback, or no feedback at all, while your peers get clear, actionable advice? That’s a red flag.

  • Getting Passed Over for Projects or Promotions – If you’re constantly being overlooked despite your qualifications, bias might be at play.

  • Your Ideas Getting Ignored—Until Someone Else Says Them – Classic. If your contributions only gain traction when repeated by a white colleague, that’s bias in action.

How to Address Microaggressions in the Moment (or Strategically)

  • Call It Out (When You Feel Safe To Do So) – A simple “What do you mean by that Karen?” can put someone on notice without making it a whole thing.

  • Redirect the Conversation – If someone makes an awkward or offensive comment, flipping it back on them with curiosity can make them rethink their words.

  • Pick Your Battles – Not every situation requires a full breakdown of why their comment was inappropriate. Sometimes, it’s best to note the behavior, address it later, or document it for HR.

  • Consider the relationship - If the comment was made by someone your know well, and have a good relationship with, consider saying something in the moment

Also Read: Unapologetically You: Owning Your Space in the Workplace

Protecting Your Peace While Staying Proactive

  • Build a Support System – Find allies who get it (see our previous post on allies and mentors in the workplace). Whether it’s other Black colleagues, mentors, or outside professional networks, having people to vent to and strategize with is key.

  • Use Your Company’s Resources – If your company has DEI initiatives, employee resource groups, or bias training, get involved (or at least stay informed about them).

  • Know When to Move On – If you’ve tried everything and the workplace culture isn’t changing, don’t be afraid to take your talents elsewhere. You deserve better. Ask for that exit interview on the way out, and don’t hold back. 

Keep Thriving with The Onyx Truth

Tired of trying to figure this out alone? You don’t have to - The Onyx Truth is here for you. We can help you create a solid plan to deal with microaggressions at work - and trust us, you need one - especially when you start to see this affecting your performance reviews, your growth at the company and your mental health. That’s The Onyx Truth.

First Step? Join The Onyx Truth Collective; an exclusive community for Black Professionals like you, looking to thrive instead of simply surviving in their organizations.

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