After working for many years in the world of human resources and career development, it still shocks me how some "so-called" professionals like Mr. Don Imus believe they can publicly attack and devalue the dignity, credibility, and accomplishments of young African American achievers.
Maybe Mr. Imus didn't approve of the "hair-styles" of the young ballers from Rutgers, because as we all know Mr. Imus has set the bar pretty high for all of us when it comes to hair styles.
Unfortunately after all has been said and done, Mr. Imus' comments have stolen a precious moment from a talented group of young women who should be celebrating their great run for a national title, but instead are forced to address the ignorance of the misguided Mr. Imus. But let's consider this as a career development lesson for us all. We will call it "The Imus Factor."
I am often told stories by talented African American professionals that have been blind-sided by the "Imus Factor" in the workplace. You probably already know this "factor," it's a sarcastic, mean-spirited, and undermining behavior, often masked in humor and can be directed at you by insecure and intimidated individuals in the workplace.
Some thoughts to consider when you encounter "The Imus Factor":
- Consider that it has probably been a long time since your "Imus" has won any "big games" themselves, if they ever really won anything at all.
- Due to your different background, perspective and style, and yes... how you look, most "Imus-types" don't believe you should have ever been "in the game" in the first place.
- Your successful performance scares your "Imus" who probably struggles with diversity and the thought of competing with you on an equal playing field.
- Most employers do not support "Imus-types." Once his or her behavior is exposed, most employers will pull their support and eventually show them the door (can you say, "lost clients, sponsors and million dollar law suits").
2 comments:
Merovingian said...
What do you do if your boss as an "Imus"?
Kim R. Wells said...
If your boss is an "Imus" it’s important to first address "Mr. Funny-Man" directly with your concerns-but of course in a very professional yet firm manner. It is important to address "Imus" immediately or he or she will keep the offensive "comedy routine" going forever at your personal and professional expense. Let "Imus" know that his or her behavior or comments are offensive to you and (if you are feeling merciful enough not to report it immediately)if it happens again you be paying a little trip to an upper level manager, human resources, and perhaps even your company's own version of "Reverend Sharpton." The threat of "singing like a bird" about the behavior is usually enough to bring a reality check to an "Imus" who has probably gotten too comfortable with their behavior.
But if the behavior continues, call human resources, an upper level manager, and yes the company "Reverend Sharpton" that will love to have a few select words with "Imus."
Most organizations don't tolerate "Imus" behavior once reported, and most will consider taking serious action to address the problem, including firing the person if the behavior proves it is necessary.
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