Treatmebetta

In the workplace, many Black women feel pressure to conform to corporate norms that don’t reflect our authentic selves. I certainly did. This practice — commonly known as masking — involves code-switching, suppressing cultural expressions, and adjusting tone, hairstyle, personality, etc. to fit into predominantly white work environments. 

While masking may seem like a survival strategy, the truth is it never really works, at least not in the long run. Eventually your mask will slip, which can lead to confusion, discomfort, and mistrust. Further, not only does masking fail to shield Black women from workplace bias, it can take a severe toll on our mental health, career growth, and overall well-being.

Why Black Women Mask at Work

Given the downside, it’s a wonder we bother to do it at all, but masking is often a learned behavior that begins early. From school settings to the workplace, Black women are often taught — either directly or indirectly — that being too expressive, too assertive, or too “different” can be detrimental to our careers. The following factors contribute to the need to mask at work:

• Fear of stereotyping – Black women often mask their emotions and communication styles to avoid being unfairly labeled as “aggressive,” “intimidating,” or “unprofessional.”
  
• Desire for career advancement – Many believe that presenting a more palatable version of themselves increases their chances of promotion and professional growth. Sometimes it does.
  
• Avoiding conflict – Navigating microaggressions and coded language in the workplace can feel exhausting, so masking becomes a way to sidestep uncomfortable situations.
  
• Lack of representation – When few Black women hold leadership positions, it can reinforce the idea that success requires assimilation.

The Psychological and Emotional Toll of Masking

There is research that shows that masking comes with significant costs. I learned of one study published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology which found that employees who suppress aspects of their identity experience higher stress levels, lower job satisfaction, and increased burnout. 

For Black women, this chronic stress is compounded by microaggressions and systemic bias. These are the results:

• Increased anxiety and depression – Constantly suppressing one’s true self can lead to anxiety and emotional exhaustion.
  
• Imposter syndrome – When authenticity is sacrificed for acceptance, Black women may struggle with feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt.
  
• Burnout – Code-switching and enduring daily microaggressions contribute to faster burnout, making long-term career sustainability difficult.
  
• Physical health impacts – Chronic stress has been linked to high blood pressure, cardiovascular issues, and sleep disturbances.

Why Masking Never Works for Long

Despite the temporary sense of security it may provide, masking doesn’t actually help us in the short or long term. It doesn’t prevent bias or discrimination. Instead, it often leads to:

• Being overlooked for promotions – Conforming to workplace norms may result in being seen as competent but not as a leader, which can stall career progression.
  
• Emotional exhaustion – Over time, constantly performing a “workplace-acceptable” version of oneself leads to disengagement and resentment.
  
• Limited professional relationships – Shallow workplace connections can form when colleagues only know a filtered version of who you are.

The Power of Authenticity at Work

It can be tough not to mask though. Bringing your whole self to work can feel dangerous, scary, and frankly, like you’re asking for trouble, but there is a middle ground. Acculturating into each individual workplace and adapting to the specific norms and rhythms associated with that company will always be advantageous from a career perspective. Masking, however, is different. It’s less about acculturation and more about assimilation. Instead of masking, Black women can find workplace success through strategic sharing and authenticity — a way to blend professionalism with individuality. 

That entails:

1. Developing a strong sense of self – Knowing who you are and standing firm in your values is a wonderful place to start from when it comes to interacting with peers and people at work — and in life — because that positive foundation makes it easier to set boundaries and advocate for yourself when needed.
   
2. Using your voice – Whether it’s speaking up in meetings or addressing microaggressions appropriately, confidence in communication fosters respect.
   
3. Seeking inclusive work environments – Some workplaces prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion more than others. Finding a company that values authenticity can make all the difference.
   
4. Finding allies and mentors – Building relationships with like-minded professionals can create a support network that makes it easier to navigate workplace challenges.
   
5. Prioritizing self-care – Engaging in activities that affirm your identity outside of work — whether through cultural experiences, therapy, or networking with other Black professionals — helps combat workplace stress.

How to Balance Authenticity and Professionalism

It’s important to understand that being authentic doesn’t mean disregarding professional norms. That’s one reason I don’t like the phrase “bring your whole self to work.” Some facets of me are not appropriate for the office! And that’s okay, because they’re fabulous outside of the workplace. If you want more expansive freedom, you may have to find ways to express myself appropriately while maintaining workplace effectiveness. 

To do that:

• Be intentional about your communication style – Confidence and clarity in how you speak and advocate for yourself can counteract bias.
  
• Set boundaries – Protect your time and energy by knowing when to push back against unrealistic expectations or unfair treatment.
  
• Showcase your strengths – Let your work speak for itself. Performance should always be a priority. Excellence paired with authenticity makes an undeniable impact.

Elevate Without Compromise

Living authentically in the workplace is not just about individual well-being; it’s about paving the way for future generations of Black women to do the same without fear. By choosing authenticity over assimilation, Black women can redefine professionalism on their terms, prioritize mental and emotional well-being, and move forward in careers with confidence and purpose.

Masking is a short-term strategy that leads to long-term exhaustion. By embracing authenticity, setting boundaries, and prioritizing inclusivity, Black women can thrive in their careers and personal lives without sacrificing who they are. 

It can be a precarious balancing act at first, but you can win, especially when you begin from a strong, positive sense of self. Focus on performance. Learn how to strategically share, and prioritize learning and growth. Minimize distractions and nonsense, and keep your eyes on the prize — whatever that means for you.