navigating the complexities of balancing values and compliance in the workplace
In the corporate world, the desire to live our values outside of the office often clashes with the onerous compliance processes that require approval for every action. This struggle is particularly significant for Black women in professional services, who are frequently undervalued and overlooked in their workplaces. As a result, many Black women turn to side hustles and community-oriented initiatives to find validation and fulfilment beyond their jobs.
Statistics show that Black women are the largest group with side hustles across various industries. This trend can be attributed to the societal identity aspect, where their contributions at work are not always acknowledged or appreciated. Consequently, they seek external validation through independent ventures. While this phenomenon is complex and multifaceted, it underscores the importance of having a life outside of work that aligns with one's values and aspirations.
The financial services industry, like many others, places a significant emphasis on compliance and oversight. Employers often have 24-hour control over their employees' lives, requiring approval for even the smallest personal endeavours. The extensive level of permission granting can be stifling, particularly when it doesn't match the magnitude of the activities being undertaken.
However, we should not allow the compliance process to deter you from giving back to your community in meaningful ways or dedicating yourself to personal growth. The desire to make a positive impact and the drive to achieve personal and professional growth should not be stifled by bureaucratic hurdles.
It should be normalised that we can maintain our identities beyond their job titles and corporate affiliations. The company does not define one's passion or identity; it is merely a part of the larger picture. While compliance processes are in place for valid reasons, they should be reviewed and revised to ensure they are not overly burdensome.
The key is not to let the company change who you are or limit your potential. Seeing examples of other Black women successfully navigating the complexities of balancing their professional lives with their personal passions inspired and motivated me to be brave. It illustrated that it was possible to be a dedicated employee while still pursuing one's multifaceted interests.
There were also some practical takeaways for me after this situation:
Go into the meeting prepared. Make sure you have spent time going through the policies that your organisation has. Highlight points that you think may support and also hinder the request.
Have a detailed plan regarding your plans. Will it affect your work time? How have you planned to market and brand the work you are doing?
Speak to someone you trust within the firm and get their initial opinion.
The more prepared you are, the easier it is, for them to say yes hopefully. The aim is to show that there is no conflict of interest nor a risk of reputational damage to the company.
The reality is also that not all organisations are willing to bend, so this is also something you will need to consider. What if they say no? Are you prepared to stop pursuing it?
The struggle to balance personal values with corporate compliance is a challenge faced by many in the professional world, particularly Black women. While compliance processes are necessary, they should not hinder personal growth, community involvement, or passion pursuits. For organisations who are truly committed to gender equity, this should be something that they create the space for and there should be the space for you to have these kinds of conversations.
