Leading in Black and White: Working Across the Racial Divide in Corporate America

In corporate America, it is important to recognize that difference "really does matter". Assuming that all leaders experience the same challenge in the workplace situates blacks on unequal footing; say Ancella Livers co-author of the book Leading in Black and White and author of Harvard Business Review "Dear White Boss". Moreover, she is right. Leading in Black and White examines the workplace dynamics often faced by the African American leader and illuminates the experience using real examples and techniques professionals can use to navigate the corporate forest. The examples are ones you will recognize if you are an African American leader. The concept of "miasma" is introduced early in the book setting the foundation for frank discussion and candor on the topics of development needs, career strategies, personal and professional development. I was challenged by this book to understand my environment--how well did (or do) I read the organization; understand self--how self-aware was I and, to understand my abilities and competencies in my current role. It also provided me with an opportunity to openly put forth a question to my organization: how well do they understand the African American leader. The book equipped me with specific strategies in the areas of education, relationship building, trust and coping skills. It also provides tools for non-blacks. It challenged them to look deeply into their actions and responsibilities in perpetuating attitudes, behaviors, and methods that benefit their own group while "quietly disempowering" others. This is necessary read for leaders: black and white.