Recommendation

Women of Color face a unique mix of challenges in the workplace, both external and internal. When striving to get ahead in their careers, they can have difficulty unpacking the relationship between the bias and discrimination they face, their internalized limiting beliefs, and the imperfect coping strategies they develop to survive. In her empowering book, Chilean-born immigrant Daniela Pierre-Bravo provides emotional insight and practical tools to help women of color summon the strength to assert themselves professionally and demand equity.

Take-Aways

• ​​​​​​The rules women of color follow to fit in can undermine their ability to lead, influence and exert power.
• Pierre-Bravo’s upbringing taught her to hide parts of her identity, as a means of achieving psychological safety.
• “Limiting beliefs” result in internal, self-imposed constraints.
• You will truly belong when you stop trying to fit in.
• Doing other people’s emotional and mental work depletes you.
• Knowing your “Why” helps you stay focused in the face of adversity.
• Use your unique voice to assert your value and build a community of professional allies.

Summary

​​​​​​The rules women of color follow to fit in can undermine their ability to lead, influence and exert power.

Daniela Pierre-Bravo was on the way to achieving her career dreams when she realized the fragmented parts of her identity has finally caught up with her. She was the first person in her family with a shot at financial stability and career fulfillment. Hustle was her default mode. When Pierre-Bravo felt overwhelmed by the chaos of her life, she just worked harder.

She moved to New York and worked unpaid internships and multiple jobs until she landed a role as a production coordinator for a cable news show. But Pierre-Bravo’s trouble finding her voice and second-guessing of her choices and value only intensified as she moved into that role of authority.

“I was Jekyll and Hyde in my own mind, allowing myself to feel these emotions, then scolding myself for them.”

Women of color, immigrants or children of immigrants learn to prove themselves through productivity. But they have problems reconciling the need to express and advocate their unique ideas with the need to show they belong and gain acceptance in a group that’s not like them.

Don’t criticize yourself for the paralysis that keeps you from doing what you need to do to get ahead. These feelings are symptoms of deep-rooted obstacles you must examine to understand what holds you back.

Pierre-Bravo’s upbringing taught her to hide parts of her identity, as a means of achieving psychological safety.

When you are an undocumented immigrant, you can’t apply for financial aid for university. You can’t get car insurance. Her freshman year of college, Pierre-Bravo was working multiple jobs and selling Mary Kay makeup door-to-door when she got into a minor fender-bender. She had to pay the other driver out of pocket, wiping out the money she had saved for school.

“A stream of nightmare scenarios flashed across my mind: Jail. Never going back to school. Separated from my family. Detention center. Deported. I squeezed the steering wheel until my knuckles turned bright white.”

This experience underscored a stark truth Pierre-Bravo already knew too well: For people like her, “There were no safety nets.” Years of operating in “survival mode” trained Pierre-Bravo to take advantage of every possible academic and career opportunity that presented itself, but it also taught her to hide her authentic self. She worked hard and kept her head down, making herself useful to her superiors and focusing on earning their approval.

“Ever since my promotion, something had felt off. I was doing everything to remain in the shadows and downplay this development.”

When you default to survival mode, your capacity for self-reflection suffers. You unconsciously adopt rules that you never challenge. You avoid doing anything that could confirm people’s prejudiced assumptions, developing a hyper-awareness of the impression you make and trying to be like your colleagues. You might avoid expressing a different opinion or disagreeing for fear of their labeling you an “angry” Black woman or an “emotional” Latina. But once you rise through the ranks, the very rules that enabled your success begin to sabotage you. Asserting yourself flies in the face of the strategies you depended upon to get that far.

“Limiting beliefs” result in internal, self-imposed constraints.

Limiting beliefs come from a lifetime of experiences of feeling “less than.”

Frances, an Asian-American colleague of Pierre-Bravo, was in casual conversation with colleagues at work when her manager told her she looked like a “China doll.” The manager followed up by saying, “You know what I mean,” essentially asking Frances to validate her comment. Though she said nothing in the moment, Frances dwelled on the comment for months. The remark made it clear that her manager – someone who should be her advocate and mentor – regarded Frances as an “Other.”

“If she had any doubt that her race, in one way or another, made her different, it was gone now. How do you bounce back from a situation like that and reclaim your power?”

Women of color and immigrants often find themselves in environments, in both their work and private lives, where they do not feel safe. To create their own sense of safety, they learn to follow unwritten rules that let them avoid situations that encourage other people’s biases to rear their heads.

Sociologist Erving Goffman calls this behavior “covering”: People with stigmatized identities take on the responsibility of downplaying that stigma themselves. When you feel you have everything to lose, you never call people out for their poor behavior. Instead, you hide aspects of yourself to avoid the alienation you feel when people reduce you to your ethnicity, gender or immigration status. You then come to view aspects of your identity negatively because of their connection to the structural disadvantages or prejudice you experience. You work so hard to fit in, you lose sight of what makes you unique.

“Throughout my life as an adolescent and teen, I had trouble separating my circumstances from my identity. I was falling prey to the narratives about my otherness that I believed others had.”

Pierre-Bravo believed that she wouldn’t belong until she proved herself to others. Beliefs of this sort result in internal, self-imposed limitations. Thinking your success hinges on others’ approval makes you dependent on external validation. The need for validation impedes you from progressing into a leadership role.

“It took years for me to be comfortable wearing hoop earrings at work at my corporate job, because even as a proud Latina, I felt like it was too Latina-looking.” (Lord, the internalized bias ran deep.)

To move past limiting beliefs, identify them:

• Reflect – Think about moments when you changed your behavior to make other people comfortable. Has your expectation of encountering bias made you turn back, rather than treating it as an obstacle to overcome?
• List your limiting beliefs – Trace those beliefs back to the experiences that made you feel that way. For example: “I feel I will be judged. I started to feel this way when…”
• Change your mind-set – Write down affirmations and action-driven statements that directly challenge these narratives. For example: “I am safe taking up space as I am. Going forward, I will not stay quiet for fear of criticism if I have something of value to add because I know my wholeness is important and valuable.”

You will truly belong when you stop trying to fit in.

In her book The Gifts of Imperfection, Brené Brown points out that belonging never results from working hard to fit in. Fitting in and belonging are two completely different activities. Fitting in requires you to modify who you are; belonging requires you to be who you are. An internalized narrative that tells you that you don’t fit in can cause you to stick too closely to society’s rules and rules you created for yourself.

“Make room for a mentality that doesn’t require the permission of others. Don’t stay in your lane. Rewrite the script.”

Would you apply for a job if you fit most of the requirements of the description, or would you focus on the one or two areas where you fear you come up short? A career is a path you make for yourself. That involves taking risks. Bias in the hiring process is a barrier for women of color and immigrants. However, your limiting beliefs could cause you to hesitate and overestimate the risk involved in pursuing something you want.

“We’ve become so used to monitoring ourselves that it doesn’t come easily to us to utilize our differences at work.”

When you detach from a limiting belief, the skills you learned as “the Other” become strengths. Those who live as the Other can fit in anywhere. They are hyper-aware of their effect on those around them, a unique source of insight.

Trust your ideas and gut instincts. You might not fit the traditional, accepted rules of what qualifies you for a position, but you can leverage your different experiences and creative ideas. Take stock of the tools and insights your multicultural background grants you that make you better at your job, such as emotional intelligence.

“So forget being grateful, forget being ‘found out,’ forget feeling different. It’s time to show up as someone more authentic and aligned with who you are.”

Acknowledging your ability makes you feel strong and lets you trust in and rely on yourself. Be your own source of validation. Acknowledge your wins. Practice talking about your achievements out loud. If doing so feels strange, start small with something like, “I’m really proud of myself because I managed to…” or, “I’m really happy because I was able to….” Over time, this exercise increases your confidence and motivation.

Doing other people’s emotional and mental work depletes you.

It’s time to stop doing the work for other people who see a specific aspect of your identity and put you in a box. Their ignorance is their problem and represents work they need to do.

“Next time you’re met with an off-color comment, a sexist or racist remark, or a statement that makes you uncomfortable, turn the tables.”

Instead of hiding the discomfort that an inappropriate comment causes you, change the power dynamic:

• Mirror back what the person said to you with a question – When confronted with prejudice, ask, “What do you mean?” or repeat what the person said. This allows you to remain professional and forces them to register for themselves what they have said. It puts the ball in their court to self-correct or get more information, rather than putting the onus on you to explain or defend yourself.
• Eliminate the chatter – “Chatter” is what psychologist and researcher Ethan Kross calls the mental noise that persists after uncomfortable interactions. Pay attention to how you talk to yourself. Instead of thinking, “I’ll never fit in,” reframe your thinking as, “That person has some learning to do about my community.”
• Talk yourself through it in the third person – This helps you gain distance from a situation that has you thinking in circles. It helps you self-regulate, emotionally.

“Create your own go-to phrase to squash any chatter that could plant seeds of doubt. ‘Not my truth.’ ‘That’s not me.’ ‘Hell no.”

When you free yourself from the need to spend all your energy covering, pleasing and playing it safe, you release a vast reservoir of energy you can devote to propelling yourself forward. You can’t control the discrimination you encounter, but you can control how it defines the stories you tell about yourself and what you are willing to demand.

Knowing your “Why” helps you stay focused in the face of adversity.

For years, Pierre-Bravo worked hard and received stellar performance reviews. But she felt boxed in. So she began pursuing stories that spoke to her passions: reporting about marginalized communities and sharing content and resources that empowered women. The move away from “hard news” felt risky, but Pierre-Bravo acknowledged that these were the topics that fueled her – they were the Why behind her work. Sharing these stories provided a sense of purpose that career success alone did not.

Leaving your comfort zone gives you self-knowledge. Failure and rejection are an inevitable part of any journey; if you have a sense of the destination, you can walk through them instead of walking away. Put your values at the center of your work life. Become more strategic about when and how you work.

“You are allowed to be multidimensional, damn it!”

If you feel stuck on a hamster wheel trying to please people instead of focusing on long-term goals, try this exercise:

• Make a list of your short- and long-term duties and roles at work.
• Rank them according to your career goals: Highest rank goes to the core duties of your job, then tasks you take on because they will help you in your career – for example, if you want to gain a new skill.
• Now look at what’s left. Why are these things on the list? How did you become the go-to person to do them?
• If the tasks take away from work that builds your value, have a conversation with your boss. Remind him or her about the work you do and discuss how you might eliminate some of your nonessential jobs. This frees up time and energy for the tasks that best serve your goals.

Use your unique voice to assert your value and build a community of professional allies.

Find people who support you because your “Whys” align. Aim for relationship equity: The other person will vouch for you because they believe in your values and because you support them, in turn. Ask them questions about themselves and share your ideas. Explain what’s important to you and why.

“Just the thought of sticking your neck out before you feel ready can be terrifying, I know, but if you have a grip on the subject matter, go for it.”

Talk about earnings with people in roles similar to yours, so you can make reasonable salary requests. Discomfort with this topic hurts women of color, who may earn as little as a third of the salary of their white male peers. Going into a conversation about salary, define your objective beforehand and ground your negotiation in that goal, with arguments to back it up, instead of waiting to see what the other person will offer. Say what you want and then let the other person make the next move. Three seconds of silence gives you a better chance of getting more value out of a negotiation.

About the Author

Daniela Pierre-Bravo is a reporter for MSNBC’s Morning Joe and co-wrote, with Mika Brzezinski, Earn It!

Review 1

After reading “The Other: How to Own Your Power at Work as a Woman of Color” by Daniela Pierre-Bravo, I am ready to provide you with a comprehensive brief review of the book.

“The Other” is a powerfully relevant guide tailored for women of color striving to succeed in the professional world. Pierre-Bravo, drawing largely from her personal journey as a young woman of color and an immigrant, shares insightful strategies and tips for overcoming the unique challenges that this demographic often faces in the workplace.

The book is crafted as a potent manifesto that seamlessly combines elements of memoir, self-help, and career guide, built around a core message that encourages women of color to embrace their unique identities and leverage their strengths to find success.

One of the most striking aspects of “The Other” is Pierre-Bravo’s candid sharing of her personal experiences, offering firsthand insight into the experiences women of color may encounter in professional settings. She throws light on the attitudes, bias, and challenges she has had to navigate, and how she overcame them through resilience, perspective, and honing her skills.

The book’s practical advice is layered throughout the narrative, covering topics such as defining personal brand, mastering effective communication, nurturing professional relationships, and navigating cultural barriers. Pierre-Bravo’s emphasis on practical implementation of these lessons renders the book an invaluable career companion for its readers.

Furthermore, the book does an exceptional job of emphasizing the power of representation and diversity in the professional world. Pierre-Bravo asserts that owning one’s ‘Otherness,’ rather than seeking to conform, can allow for a display of strength, resilience, and unique perspectives – all vital components to enhancing a company’s overall success.

In conclusion, “The Other: How to Own Your Power at Work as a Woman of Color” is an empowering and insightful read. It personifies resilience, exemplifies ambition, and equips its readers with the tools necessary to triumph over prejudice and pave a successful career path.

I hope this brief review gives you a comprehensive understanding of the book’s content. If you need more information or have more questions, please feel free to ask.

Review 2

“The Other: How to Own Your Power at Work as a Woman of Color” by Daniela Pierre-Bravo is a powerful and insightful book that sheds light on the unique challenges faced by women of color in the workplace. The author, who is a woman of color herself, draws from her own experiences and those of other women of color to highlight the various ways in which they are marginalized and excluded from opportunities for advancement.

The book is divided into four parts, each of which focuses on a different aspect of the experience of women of color in the workplace. The first part explores the concept of “otherness,” and how women of color are often made to feel like they don’t belong in the workplace. The second part examines the ways in which women of color are often overlooked and undervalued, and how they can learn to advocate for themselves and their work. The third part discusses the importance of building a support network, and how women of color can find and cultivate allies in the workplace. The final part offers practical advice on how women of color can own their power and advance their careers, despite the obstacles they may face.

Throughout the book, Pierre-Bravo uses real-life examples and case studies to illustrate her points, making the book feel both relatable and actionable. She also includes practical exercises and strategies that readers can use to overcome the challenges they may face.

One of the strengths of the book is its focus on the intersectionality of race and gender. Pierre-Bravo acknowledges that women of color face unique challenges that are not always addressed in discussions of gender inequality in the workplace. She also highlights the ways in which women of color are often expected to conform to certain stereotypes or perform certain roles, and how these expectations can limit their opportunities for advancement.

Another strength of the book is its emphasis on the importance of self-care and self-advocacy. Pierre-Bravo encourages readers to take care of themselves and prioritize their well-being, both in and out of the workplace. She also encourages readers to speak up and advocate for themselves, rather than waiting for someone else to do it for them.

The book also includes several inspiring stories of women of color who have overcome obstacles and achieved success in their careers. These stories serve as a reminder that, despite the challenges they may face, women of color can achieve their goals and make a meaningful impact in their fields.

Overall, “The Other: How to Own Your Power at Work as a Woman of Color” is a must-read for any woman of color who wants to advance her career and own her power in the workplace. It is also a valuable resource for anyone who wants to be an ally to women of color and support them in their career journeys. The book is well-researched, well-written, and filled with practical advice and inspiring stories. It is a powerful call to action, encouraging women of color to speak up, assert their value, and achieve their goals.

Review 3

“The Other: How to Own Your Power at Work as a Woman of Color” by Daniela Pierre-Bravo is an empowering and insightful book that addresses the unique challenges faced by women of color in the workplace and provides actionable strategies to overcome these obstacles.

Pierre-Bravo draws on her personal experiences as a Latina woman and her expertise as a journalist and career coach to offer practical advice and guidance to women of color navigating their professional journeys. The book explores various aspects of career development, including self-awareness, personal branding, networking, mentorship, and resilience.

One of the notable strengths of “The Other” is its emphasis on self-empowerment and self-advocacy. Pierre-Bravo encourages women of color to embrace their uniqueness, celebrate their strengths, and confidently assert themselves in the workplace. She provides valuable insights on building self-confidence, overcoming imposter syndrome, and leveraging personal experiences to drive professional success.

The book also addresses the importance of personal branding and networking. Pierre-Bravo offers practical tips on crafting an authentic personal brand, building a strong professional network, and leveraging these connections to advance one’s career. She emphasizes the value of finding mentors and sponsors who can provide guidance, support, and opportunities for growth.

Furthermore, “The Other” delves into the challenges of navigating workplace biases and microaggressions. Pierre-Bravo provides strategies for addressing and challenging these biases while maintaining professionalism and resilience. She offers guidance on effective communication, conflict resolution, and building inclusive work environments.

Pierre-Bravo also addresses the significance of work-life integration and self-care for women of color. She explores the importance of setting boundaries, managing stress, and prioritizing well-being to maintain long-term career success and fulfillment.

In summary, “The Other: How to Own Your Power at Work as a Woman of Color” is an empowering and practical guide for women of color seeking to thrive in their professional lives. Pierre-Bravo’s personal anecdotes, combined with actionable strategies and insights, make this book a valuable resource for navigating the unique challenges faced by women of color in the workplace. Whether you are early in your career or an experienced professional, this book offers the guidance and inspiration needed to own your power and succeed in your chosen field.

Review 4

Certainly! Here is a brief review of the book “The Other: How to Own Your Power at Work as a Woman of Color” by Daniela Pierre-Bravo:

Overview:

In “The Other,” Daniela Pierre-Bravo provides a powerful and thought-provoking guide for women of color who are seeking to assert their power and succeed in the workplace. Through a combination of personal anecdotes, research, and practical strategies, Pierre-Bravo challenges readers to rethink the way they approach their careers and navigate the complex dynamics of workplace culture.

Key Themes:

• The concept of “the other” and how it affects women of color in the workplace: Pierre-Bravo argues that women of color are often marginalized and excluded from power and decision-making in the workplace, and that this can be attributed to the “othering” of their identities. She challenges readers to recognize and confront this phenomenon in order to claim their rightful place in the workplace.
• The importance of self-care and self-love: Pierre-Bravo emphasizes the importance of prioritizing self-care and self-love as a means of surviving and thriving in the workplace. She encourages readers to embrace their uniqueness and celebrate their differences, rather than trying to fit into dominant cultural norms.
• The power of community and networking: Pierre-Bravo stresses the importance of building a supportive community of other women of color who can provide guidance, mentorship, and a safe space to share experiences and challenges. She also emphasizes the value of networking and building relationships with allies who can advocate for and support women of color in the workplace.
• Practical strategies for asserting power and achieving success: Pierre-Bravo provides a range of practical strategies for women of color to assert their power and achieve success in the workplace, including how to navigate difficult conversations, set boundaries, and advocate for oneself.

Strengths:

• Personal and relatable: Pierre-Bravo’s writing is personal and relatable, making the book feel like a conversation with a trusted friend. Her use of anecdotes and examples from her own life and the lives of other women of color brings the concepts to life and makes them more accessible.
• Accessible and inclusive: The book is written in an accessible and inclusive style, making it easy for readers to understand and apply the concepts, regardless of their background or experience.
• Practical and actionable: The book provides a range of practical strategies and techniques that readers can use to assert their power and achieve success in the workplace.

Weaknesses:

• Focus on individual actions: While the book emphasizes the importance of community and networking, it could have delved deeper into the structural and systemic changes that are needed to create a more inclusive and equitable workplace.
• Limited scope: The book is focused specifically on women of color, and some readers may have found it limited in its scope and applicability to their own experiences.

Overall, “The Other” is a powerful and thought-provoking book that challenges readers to rethink the way they approach their careers and navigate the complex dynamics of workplace culture. It provides a range of practical strategies and techniques that women of color can use to assert their power and achieve success in the workplace. While it has some limitations, the book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to create a more inclusive and equitable workplace.

Review 5

The Other: How to Own Your Power at Work as a Woman of Color by Daniela Pierre-Bravo is an important book that addresses the challenges and opportunities faced by women of color, children of immigrants, and other minoritized groups in the workplace. The author, who is a bestselling author and MSNBC reporter, shares her own journey as an undocumented immigrant from Chile who worked her way up in her career, as well as the stories of other women who have overcome workplace imposter syndrome and claimed their space and power. The book offers practical advice and strategies for self-advocacy, confidence-building, and career advancement, while also highlighting the value of diversity and identity in the professional world. The book is smart, revealing, and inspiring, and it provides a framework for how to succeed in your career without losing your sense of self.

Review 6

Introduction:
In “The Other: How to Own Your Power at Work as a Woman of Color,” Daniela Pierre-Bravo offers a powerful and timely guide for women of color seeking to assert their authority in predominantly white workplaces. The book provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the unique challenges faced by women of color in the workplace and offers practical strategies for overcoming these challenges. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking to foster a more inclusive and equitable work environment.

Summary:
In “The Other,” Pierre-Bravo argues that the traditional workplace model is designed to marginalize and disempower women of color, who are often seen as “others” in the workplace. She contends that this marginalization stems from systemic racism and sexism, which perpetuate stereotypes and limit opportunities for women of color. Pierre-Bravo asserts that in order to overcome these obstacles, women of color must develop a deep understanding of their own power and learn to assert it in meaningful ways.

The book is divided into four parts, each of which focuses on a different aspect of owning one’s power at work. Part one provides an overview of the challenges faced by women of color in the workplace, while parts two through four offer practical strategies for overcoming these challenges. These strategies include developing a growth mindset, building a strong support network, and using one’s voice to advocate for oneself and others.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the Intersectionality of Race and Gender: Pierre-Bravo emphasizes the importance of understanding the intersections of race and gender in the workplace, arguing that these intersections are crucial to understanding the unique challenges faced by women of color.
• Recognizing and Challenging Stereotypes: Pierre-Bravo provides insightful analysis of the stereotypes that often limit the opportunities and potential of women of color in the workplace, and offers strategies for challenging these stereotypes and building a more inclusive work culture.
• Building a Support Network: Pierre-Bravo stresses the importance of building a strong support network of women of color in the workplace, arguing that this network can provide a vital source of emotional support and professional guidance.
• Using One’s Voice: Pierre-Bravo offers practical strategies for using one’s voice to advocate for oneself and others, including strategies for effective communication and negotiation.

Strengths and Weaknesses:

Strengths:

• Comprehensive framework: Pierre-Bravo provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the challenges faced by women of color in the workplace and offers practical strategies for overcoming these challenges.
• Insightful analysis: Pierre-Bravo’s analysis of the stereotypes and biases that limit the opportunities and potential of women of color in the workplace is both insightful and thought-provoking.
• Practical strategies: The book offers a wealth of practical strategies for women of color looking to assert their authority in predominantly white workplaces.

Weaknesses:

• Limited scope: While the book provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the challenges faced by women of color in the workplace, it does not address the broader social and political issues that contribute to these challenges.
• Lack of case studies: The book could benefit from case studies or real-world examples of women of color who have successfully navigated the challenges of the workplace.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, “The Other: How to Own Your Power at Work as a Woman of Color” is a must-read for any woman of color seeking to assert her authority in a predominantly white workplace. Pierre-Bravo’s comprehensive framework and practical strategies offer a roadmap for overcoming the unique challenges faced by women of color in the workplace. While the book has some limitations, its strengths make it an invaluable resource for anyone looking to foster a more inclusive and equitable work environment.

Review 7

“The Other: How to Own Your Power at Work as a Woman of Color” by Daniela Pierre-Bravo is a compelling and empowering guide that addresses the unique challenges faced by women of color in the workplace. Drawing from personal experiences, research, and interviews, Pierre-Bravo offers practical insights and actionable advice to help women of color navigate professional environments and harness their full potential.

The book is a valuable resource for women of color seeking guidance on overcoming barriers and thriving in their careers. Pierre-Bravo’s writing is both relatable and authoritative, making it easy for readers to connect with her experiences while also benefiting from her expertise as a journalist and advocate.

One of the book’s strengths is its focus on authenticity and self-empowerment. Pierre-Bravo encourages readers to embrace their individuality and leverage their unique perspectives as strengths in the workplace. By sharing stories of successful women of color who have risen above adversity, she inspires readers to recognize their worth and believe in their abilities.

Pierre-Bravo addresses a range of important topics, including imposter syndrome, allyship, navigating microaggressions, and building a support network. Each chapter offers practical strategies and actionable steps, making the book a highly practical guide for women of color at various stages of their careers.

“The Other” also highlights the importance of cultural intelligence and self-care. Pierre-Bravo emphasizes the value of understanding diverse cultural dynamics and how they influence interactions in the workplace. Moreover, she emphasizes the significance of maintaining one’s well-being and mental health while striving for success.

The book’s format, which combines personal narratives, research findings, and practical exercises, ensures that readers receive a well-rounded perspective. Pierre-Bravo’s empathetic tone and relatable anecdotes create an engaging reading experience that feels like a supportive conversation.

In conclusion, “The Other: How to Own Your Power at Work as a Woman of Color” is an empowering and insightful guide for women of color navigating the professional world. Daniela Pierre-Bravo’s blend of personal stories, research-backed advice, and actionable strategies makes the book an invaluable resource for those seeking to overcome challenges, embrace their uniqueness, and excel in their careers. This book not only validates the experiences of women of color but also equips them with the tools to confidently navigate and succeed in workplaces that may not always reflect their diversity.

Review 8

The Other: How to Own Your Power at Work as a Woman of Color by Daniela Pierre-Bravo is a powerful and insightful book that provides women of color with the tools they need to succeed in the workplace.

Pierre-Bravo draws on her own experiences as a woman of color in the corporate world to identify the unique challenges that women of color face, such as microaggressions, bias, and discrimination. She also offers practical advice on how to overcome these challenges and achieve success.

One of the most important things that Pierre-Bravo emphasizes is the importance of self-awareness. She encourages women of color to understand their own strengths and weaknesses, and to use this knowledge to their advantage. She also stresses the importance of building relationships with allies, both inside and outside of the workplace.

Another key theme in the book is the importance of resilience. Pierre-Bravo acknowledges that the journey to success is not always easy, but she encourages women of color to persevere in the face of adversity. She also provides tips on how to deal with setbacks and maintain a positive mindset.

Overall, The Other: How to Own Your Power at Work as a Woman of Color is an essential resource for women of color who are looking to succeed in the workplace. Pierre-Bravo’s insights and advice are invaluable, and her book is sure to help women of color achieve their full potential.

Review 9

“The Other: How to Own Your Power at Work as a Woman of Color” by Daniela Pierre-Bravo is a powerful and insightful book that addresses the unique challenges faced by women of color in the workplace. With a combination of personal anecdotes, research, and practical advice, Pierre-Bravo offers a comprehensive guide for women of color to navigate and thrive in their professional lives.

One of the strengths of this book is the author’s ability to blend her personal experiences with broader societal issues. Pierre-Bravo shares her own journey as a woman of color in the corporate world, highlighting the obstacles she faced and the strategies she employed to overcome them. Her vulnerability and authenticity make the book relatable and inspiring, as readers can see themselves reflected in her stories.

The book also delves into the systemic biases and stereotypes that women of color encounter in the workplace. Pierre-Bravo provides a thorough analysis of these challenges, backed by research and statistics, which helps readers understand the larger context in which they operate. By shedding light on these issues, the author encourages women of color to challenge the status quo and advocate for themselves.

Furthermore, “The Other” offers practical advice and strategies for women of color to assert their power and navigate their careers successfully. Pierre-Bravo provides actionable tips on building confidence, finding mentors, networking, and negotiating for better opportunities. These insights are invaluable for women of color who often face unique barriers to advancement.

What sets this book apart is its emphasis on empowerment and self-ownership. Pierre-Bravo encourages women of color to embrace their unique perspectives and experiences, recognizing them as strengths rather than obstacles. She emphasizes the importance of self-care, self-advocacy, and self-belief, empowering readers to take control of their professional journeys.

While “The Other” primarily focuses on the experiences of women of color, the book also offers valuable insights for individuals from all backgrounds. It serves as a reminder of the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace and provides actionable steps for creating a more equitable environment.

In conclusion, “The Other: How to Own Your Power at Work as a Woman of Color” is a must-read for women of color navigating the professional world. Daniela Pierre-Bravo’s personal stories, combined with research and practical advice, make this book a comprehensive guide for overcoming challenges and owning one’s power. It is an empowering and enlightening read that will inspire and equip women of color to thrive in their careers.

Review 10

In “The Other: How to Own Your Power at Work as a Woman of Color,” Daniela Pierre-Bravo offers a powerful and insightful guide for women of color navigating the complexities of the workplace. Drawing from her own experiences and those of other successful women of color, Pierre-Bravo delves into the unique challenges faced by this demographic and provides practical strategies to overcome obstacles and claim their power.

The book begins by addressing the concept of “otherness” that women of color often experience in predominantly white work environments. Pierre-Bravo skillfully articulates the feelings of isolation, invisibility, and the constant need to prove oneself that many women of color encounter. Through personal anecdotes and interviews, she paints a vivid picture of the intersectionality of race, gender, and professional ambition.

One of the book’s strengths lies in its emphasis on self-empowerment and the importance of owning one’s narrative. Pierre-Bravo encourages women of color to embrace their unique perspectives and experiences, viewing them as valuable assets rather than burdens. She guides readers through exercises and reflections that help develop self-awareness, confidence, and a strong sense of identity, enabling them to navigate the workplace with authenticity and purpose.

“The Other” also delves into the complexities of mentorship and allyship. Pierre-Bravo stresses the significance of finding mentors who understand and support the unique challenges faced by women of color. She provides practical advice on how to seek out these relationships and cultivate them effectively. Additionally, she explores the role of allies and the importance of building inclusive networks to foster a more equitable work environment.

Another noteworthy aspect of the book is its focus on advocating for change within organizations. Pierre-Bravo provides valuable insights into navigating office politics, promoting diversity and inclusion, and challenging systemic biases. She offers strategic approaches to addressing microaggressions, biases, and discriminatory practices, empowering women of color to become catalysts for change and create more inclusive workplaces.

“The Other” is written in an engaging and accessible style, making it relatable to a wide range of readers. Pierre-Bravo’s storytelling ability and authenticity create a connection with the audience, allowing her message to resonate deeply. The book is well-structured, with each chapter building upon the previous one, providing a comprehensive roadmap for personal and professional growth.

While the book is primarily targeted towards women of color, its insights and strategies can benefit anyone seeking to create a more inclusive and equitable work environment. By shedding light on the experiences of women of color and providing actionable advice, Pierre-Bravo encourages readers to recognize and challenge the biases and barriers that persist in today’s workplaces.

In conclusion, “The Other: How to Own Your Power at Work as a Woman of Color” is an empowering and essential read for women of color navigating their professional journeys. Daniela Pierre-Bravo’s expertise and personal experiences shine through, offering practical guidance, inspiration, and a call to action. This book is a valuable resource for individuals, organizations, and allies committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.

Review 11

Here is my brief review of the book The Other: How to Own Your Power at Work as a Woman of Color by Daniela Pierre-Bravo:

The Other is a book that empowers and inspires women of color to overcome the challenges and barriers they face in the workplace and to achieve their career goals and aspirations. The book is written by Daniela Pierre-Bravo, who is a TV producer, author, and speaker. She is also the co-host of the podcast Latina to Latina and the co-author of the book Earn It! with Mika Brzezinski. The book draws on her own personal story of immigrating from Peru to the U.S., working as an undocumented student, and breaking into the media industry, as well as the stories and insights of other successful women of color from various fields and backgrounds.

The book covers various topics, such as:

• The reality and impact of being the other in the workplace, such as facing discrimination, bias, stereotypes, and microaggressions.
• The strategies and skills for navigating the workplace as the other, such as building confidence, finding mentors, negotiating salary, managing conflict, and creating impact.
• The opportunities and advantages of being the other in the workplace, such as leveraging diversity, authenticity, resilience, and creativity.
• The vision and purpose of being the other in the workplace, such as defining success, pursuing passion, making a difference, and inspiring others.

The book explains each topic in detail, with practical examples, case studies, tips, tools, and exercises. The book also provides a self-assessment tool that helps readers evaluate their current level of owning their power at work and identify areas for improvement. The book is not a theoretical or academic treatise on diversity and inclusion, but rather a practical and engaging guide that draws on the author’s extensive research and experience in being the other. The book is based on solid research and data, but also on real-life stories and anecdotes that illustrate the points and arguments. The book challenges some of the common myths and misconceptions about being the other in the workplace, such as being a victim, a token, or a threat. The book argues that being the other is not a weakness, but a strength.

The book is a valuable and informative read for anyone who wants to improve their career performance and satisfaction as a woman of color, whether they are new or experienced, individual or team-based, product or service-oriented. The book provides a comprehensive and balanced overview of being the other in the workplace, as well as actionable tips and tools for implementing it effectively. The book also offers a visionary and optimistic outlook on the future of work, which is changing rapidly due to technology, globalization, and customer expectations.

Review 12

Here is a review of the book “The Other: How to Own Your Power at Work as a Woman of Color” by Daniela Pierre-Bravo:

This book provides an insightful look into the experience of women of color in the workplace. Daniela Pierre-Bravo draws on both her professional experience in HR and diversity consulting, as well as interviews with over 100 women, to examine the unique challenges this group faces.

A major theme is how women of color often feel like “the other” -different and on the outside due to their intersecting identities. Pierre-Bravo discusses the subtle and not so subtle ways bias can manifest, from microagressions to unfair treatment and lack of mentorship. She notes research showing women of color are promoted more slowly and paid less, even when controlling for factors like education and experience.

While acknowledging systemic racism and sexism remain problems, the author’s main focus is on practical strategies for women of color to advance their careers. She advocates developing a strong personal brand to highlight your unique strengths and value proposition. The concept of “executive presence” is explored, with advice on presenting yourself with confidence. Building an authentic support system and advocates within and outside the workplace is also emphasized.

Pierre-Bravo recommends asking for constructive feedback to improve one’s performance, while also understanding when bias may be at play and not taking unfair criticism personally. Negotiation skills are another topic, with suggestions for how to discuss promotions, salaries, and opportunities in a way that highlights your contributions and experience. The importance of maintaining work-life balance and caring for one’s mental health as a woman of color facing extra pressures is also covered.

Overall, this book shines a light on real issues through compelling stories while providing actionable advice and a message of hope. It is well-researched and passionate without being angry or accusatory. Whether you are a woman of color looking to thrive in your career or a manager seeking to foster diversity and inclusion, “The Other” offers valuable lessons on advancing progress and overcoming barriers that remain all too common in today’s workplace.

Review 13

I have read the book [The Other: How to Own Your Power at Work as a Woman of Color] by [Daniela Pierre-Bravo] and I will give you a brief review of it.

The book is a personal and professional guide for women of color and children of immigrants who face challenges and opportunities in the workplace. The author, who is a bestselling author and MSNBC reporter, shares her own story of overcoming imposter syndrome, discrimination, and self-doubt as an undocumented immigrant from Chile. She also features the stories and advice of other successful women of color who have navigated their careers in various fields and industries. The book offers practical tips and strategies for building confidence, finding mentors, negotiating salaries, managing stress, and more. The book also empowers the reader to embrace their identity and culture as sources of strength and inspiration.

The book is well-written, engaging, and informative. The author uses data, anecdotes, interviews, and case studies to support her arguments and illustrate her points. The author also explains complex concepts and terms in simple and accessible language. The book is not only informative, but also inspiring. It challenges the reader to rethink their own career goals and aspirations, and to advocate for themselves and others in the workplace. The book is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to own their power at work as a woman of color.