I’m the only black person in my group at work (about 200 people). I’m really trying to connect and interact with coworkers. For some reason, the white people get so uncomfortable when I try talk to them until another white person comes along and they just start talking by themselves. When I’m talking to them they avoid eye contact and just seem so uncomfortable. Could be just talking about the event we’re all attending. It happened today at work and now I feel alone. Am I doing something wrong??

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Posting as :
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Clearly diversity is new. Try to bond with women. Outfit, clothing, shoes. Kids. Try to break the ice.

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This isn’t going to work

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Hard to say because the experience sounds so general. It's consulting, extended small talk with people you don't know can be more challenging because of politics and the fact people can feel obligated to attend meetings. Most people aren't in consulting for the people. Also look at the group you're in e.g. Tech vs Strategy responses to networking will be different. Think about the positional level of those you're talking with. And obviously, make sure you don't over-talk or talk at the wrong moments.

Are you still at Pdubs?

Ok I asked that because I’d recommend you join BIN to at least have a network of peers who look like you.

In terms of your group though, I understand how that can happen because I was in the largest FS group in my office and there were like less than 10 black people in our group total and majority were higher ups and I struggled for so long similar to you.

What helped me was finding people who had interest in holding a convo with me. As an example If someone gave me 1 word responses when I tried talking to them I’d literally never initiate conversation with them again lol. Although it sucks to have to be the one to initiate conversation all the time, it’s the nature of the beast when we work at these companies that aren’t really catered to us.

Overtime too, I got some mentors in my group who were very helpful and connected me with people in the group so I made some organic relationships that way as well.

I know how hard it can be in the beginning but hopefully it gets better! Feel free to dm me if you wanna speak further. Goodluck!

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