A couple of days ago, a recruiter approached me. She was convinced I was the ideal fit for a role she was trying to fill. However, a couple of adjustments on my CV would be needed, she said. That was fair enough. CVs should be tailored for specific roles, after all. But then came another request: she had an issue with my profile picture, deeming it "too casual."
This interaction set me thinking. If you can't accept me for who I authentically am from the outset, isn't that already a red flag? It's not just about a photo. It's about what the photo represents. My identity, my authenticity, my essence.
For people of colour, the journey to being authentic in professional settings often comes with its unique challenges. There's an unspoken pressure, a veiled expectation to fit into a certain mould, one that may not necessarily resonate with our genuine selves. It's a balancing act, teetering between what's deemed 'professionally acceptable' and who we genuinely are.
The cost of the professional mould
Now, I realise that professional norms exist. But the question arises: how much of our authentic selves are we expected to leave at the door to fit into the 'professional' mould? And more importantly, what do we lose in the process?
In a diverse world, it's crucial to recognise that authenticity doesn't come in a one-size-fits-all package. It's shaped by a myriad of experiences, cultures, backgrounds, and personalities. Each one of us brings a unique flavour to the table, and it's this very diversity that drives innovation and fosters understanding.
Non-negotiable
For me, staying true to who I am is non-negotiable. It's not just about standing firm in my identity, but also about paving the way for others who might feel the need to hide their authentic selves. We must create spaces where everyone, regardless of their background, feels safe and encouraged to be genuine.
While it's essential to understand and respect the professional norms, it's equally crucial to recognise and celebrate individuality. Let's not allow superficial expectations to overshadow genuine talent and authenticity. After all, it's our unique experiences and perspectives that make us invaluable in any role, in any company. And, if a casual profile photo is a testament to my authenticity, then so be it.
Let's champion diversity, not just in words, but in our actions, our expectations, and most importantly, in our acceptance of others.