According to research, only 1.5% of top management positions in the private sector of the U.K. are held by people of colour, an increase of just 0.1 percentage points since 2014. Even less progress has reportedly been made regarding Black representation in the public sector, where the percentage of Black employees in leadership positions remained constant at 1% over the same period. With only 16% of board seats on the Fortune 500, African-Americans, who comprise about 40% of the U.S. population, continue to be underrepresented in business. It begs the question, “Are we doing enough?”

One common reason for low Black leadership is unconscious bias—unconsciously formed social stereotypes about particular groups of people by individuals. Other factors contributing to a lack of leadership positions are a lack of role models, a lack of self-confidence and self-esteem, and a lack of training and development opportunities.

Three ways Black professionals can improve leadership skills

Strong leadership qualities enable a leader to foster a more effective and enjoyable workplace, ultimately improving the business’s long-term results. How do Black professionals strengthen their leadership skills?

Here’s how:

Find a mentor to sharpen your leadership skill set

Be sure the mentor you choose is trustworthy and will provide you with honest criticism. A mentor can offer you support, advice, and direction. They can also aid in your quest for a deeper comprehension of who you are and what you want. Mentors can be anyone – a colleague, a trusted colleague, a friend, a senior manager, or someone with more experience.

Prioritise personal growth and development

A good leader knows the importance of self-development. To build your leadership capacity, be willing to prioritise learning and have a plan for your professional development. There is always time to gain insight, regardless of how busy you are. Knowledge makes you aware of how much you still need to know and how much room there is for growth. Once you decide how to advance as a leader, begin the training to acquire the skills you need.

Build a strong network

Building a solid network is essential for career growth and development. It enables you to connect with other professionals in your industry, learn from their experiences, and gain new opportunities. As a leader, having a strong network can also help you find the right talent for your team and establish partnerships with other organisations.

To make meaningful professional connections, you need to be proactive and intentional. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with people on social media.

BYP Leadership Conference 2023: Intentional Steps

Take advantage of the opportunity to improve your leadership skills by registering for the BYP Leadership Conference 2023: Intentional Steps