I've got a story for you, one that might resonate if you’ve ever felt out of place or undervalued in your professional journey.
About two or three years ago, I started eyeing a company down in Dallas, Texas. The plan was to move from Little Rock, Arkansas, and I was eager for the new opportunity. I followed their every move – from new hires to their vibrant "welcome to the team" posts. But there was something unsettling that I couldn’t ignore.
Scrolling through their website, their social media posts, and their team photos, I noticed a glaring pattern: there was no one who looked like me. The team was mostly young, white men and women, with maybe an Asian face here and there. No diversity, no representation. It was clear that I wouldn’t be seen or valued the way I deserve to be. So, I made a decision. I stopped pursuing a position with this company.
In light of the recent DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) rollbacks, this experience feels even more poignant. It's a reminder that we should go where we’re wanted and valued, not just where we think the grass might be greener.
But here’s the flip side: my experience with the North Little Rock School District has been the total and exact opposite. Here, I’ve felt seen, valued, and part of a truly inclusive team that celebrates diversity. It’s a testament to what a workplace should be – welcoming and empowering for everyone.
To anyone who’s felt the same – who’s looked at a company and thought, “Do they see me?” – let this be your inspiration. Don’t waste your time or talent on places that don’t recognize your worth. Seek out environments that celebrate you, that uplift you, and that reflect the beautiful diversity of our world.
I believe in the power of diversity and the strength it brings to any team and I'm injecting that into the culture of Lancorp Digital Solutions. Let’s continue to build spaces where everyone is valued for who they are. 💪🏾 #RepresentationMatters #KnowYourWorth #DEI
If you're ready to work with a team that sees you and values your unique contributions, let’s chat: https://lnkd.in/eAcevc3U
Sales Manager at Trillium Construction Services
5moFeels like it's been more the 9 years. Congrats Ryan Ahnquist