It’s no mystery why women are far more likely than men to insist on working remotely. What may require more explanation is why people of color — particularly women of color — are so much less enthusiastic about on-site work than white people. One study found that only 3% of Black knowledge workers wanted to return to full-time on-site work, as opposed to 21% of white peers. Another found that Black, Asian-American, and Latinx knowledge workers all preferred hybrid or fully remote work at higher rates than whites do.
Why Many Women of Color Don’t Want to Return to the Office
A recent study sheds light on the unique challenges these employees face.
May 12, 2022
Ivan Gener/Stocksy
Summary.
A recent study of women of color who work in the tech industry offers insight into why many don’t want to return to the office. Their reasons range from acts of overt racism and sexism, as well as more subtle dynamics, including: feeling the need to self-monitor their behavior (i.e. not presenting as “too Latina” or “too Black); self-editing so as not to present as too “intimidating”; being mistaken for admin or custodial staff; feeling the need to alter their appearance to “fit in”; and more.
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HBR Learning
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Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
How to build a better, more just workplace.