A Moment That Changed Everything

I remember one day sitting in my office, quietly working, when I overheard my boss coaching one of my white male colleagues. He wasn’t just giving casual advice; he was helping him map out his career path, offering tips, and even offering to introduce him to key people in the organization. Meanwhile, all I got was a passing “Hey Twanna, how are you doing?” as he walked by my office.

That moment stayed with me.

It wasn’t an isolated incident. Over time, I began noticing a pattern: my younger male and white colleagues were being groomed, mentored, and handed opportunities on a silver platter. They had people rooting for them, guiding their steps, and ensuring their success. Meanwhile, I was left to figure it out on my own.

This experience is not unique to me. Many Black women executives feel unsupported, undervalued, and overlooked in the workplace. But it doesn’t have to stay that way.

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The Hidden Cost of Being Overlooked

The Emotional and Professional Toll

Being overlooked for mentorship isn’t just frustrating; it’s isolating. As a Black woman executive, you often have to navigate a workplace that wasn’t designed with you in mind. When mentorship and sponsorship are offered to others but not us, the impact can be profound.

For me, it often felt like clawing my way uphill. Every accomplishment came with an extra layer of effort because I lacked the insider guidance my peers enjoyed. The result? Feeling stuck, questioning my value, and constantly working harder to prove myself.

Without mentorship, we lose more than just opportunities—we lose time. I spent years figuring out things on my own that could have taken months with the right guidance.

The Ripple Effect on Confidence

Imagine this: You watch your colleagues get promotions and opportunities that you know you’re qualified for, but you’re left on the sidelines. Over time, it can erode your confidence. You may start doubting your abilities or wondering if you’re enough.

I’ve been there. I spent years second-guessing myself, wondering why I wasn’t good enough to deserve the same support as my peers. The truth? It wasn’t about me—it was about the biases and blind spots in the system.

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Why Representation and Mentorship Matter for Black Woman Executive

The Importance of Being Seen and Heard

One of the most significant lessons I’ve learned is the power of representation. When you have someone in your corner—someone who sees your potential, understands your struggles, and actively advocates for you—it can change everything.

Mentorship isn’t just about guidance; it’s about being seen and valued. For a Black woman executive, having a mentor who understands your unique challenges can provide the clarity and confidence you need to thrive.

How Mentorship Accelerates Success

Think about it: When others have mentors, they’re given a roadmap to success. They learn how to navigate office politics, identify growth opportunities, and connect with influential people. Without that support, you’re left to stumble through trial and error, which slows your progress and amplifies frustration.

Had I been mentored the way my white male colleagues were, I could have advanced faster and with far less stress. Instead of feeling like I was figuring it all out alone, I could have focused on growing, thriving, and excelling.

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Why I Became an Executive Coach

A Mission Rooted in Personal Experience

These experiences are why I became an executive coach for Black women executives. I know firsthand what it feels like to be overlooked, undervalued, and unsupported in a workplace that doesn’t always recognize your brilliance.

I became a coach because I didn’t want other Black women executives to feel like they had to navigate their careers alone. I wanted to be the mentor I didn’t have—someone who not only sees your potential but helps you unlock it.

Empowering Black Women to Thrive

My goal as a coach is simple: to help Black women executives thrive. Whether that’s gaining clarity in your career path, breaking through workplace barriers, or finally feeling confident in your value, I’m here to support you every step of the way.

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Breaking Through Barriers: Actionable Strategies

Building Your Support System

One of the first steps to overcoming workplace isolation is to build your own support system. This can include:

• Finding a Mentor: Look for someone who aligns with your goals and values. If mentorship isn’t readily offered, seek out professional organizations or networking events where you can connect with potential mentors.
• Creating an Advisory Board: Surround yourself with a group of trusted colleagues, friends, or industry professionals who can offer guidance and perspective.
• Leveraging LinkedIn: Use LinkedIn to connect with leaders in your field, join groups, and participate in discussions.

Advocating for Yourself

Sometimes, we have to be our own advocates. This means:

• Speaking Up: Don’t be afraid to express your career aspirations to your manager or leadership team. Let them know you’re an Black woman executive eager for growth and willing to take on new challenges.
• Asking for Mentorship: If there’s someone in your organization you admire, approach them with a specific request for guidance. Be clear about what you’re looking for and how they can help.
• Documenting Your Wins: Keep a record of your accomplishments and contributions. This not only builds confidence but provides concrete examples of your value when seeking opportunities.

Shifting Your Mindset

Breaking through workplace barriers starts with believing in your worth. Remember:

• You Deserve to Be Here: Your skills, expertise, and perspective are valuable. Don’t let anyone make you feel otherwise.
• Reframe Challenges: Instead of viewing obstacles as insurmountable, see them as opportunities to grow and prove your resilience.
• Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge your progress, no matter how small. Every step forward is a victory for a Black woman executive.

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The Path Forward

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

If there’s one thing I want you to take away from this, it’s this: You don’t have to navigate your career alone. There are people, like me, who are here to support you, guide you, and help you thrive.

As a Black woman executive, you deserve a career that aligns with your value, your potential, and your vision for success. And with the right support, you can achieve it faster and with more confidence than you ever thought possible.

Unlock Your Full Potential as a Black Woman Executive

As a Black woman executive, you bring unparalleled skills, insights, and resilience to the table. Yet, without the right support, it’s easy to feel stuck or overlooked. That’s why investing in your growth and surrounding yourself with the right tools and strategies is essential.

Imagine having a clear roadmap to success, a coach who understands your unique challenges, and actionable steps to help you advance with confidence. Here’s what’s possible:

• Accelerate Your Career Growth: With tailored guidance, you can navigate workplace challenges and seize opportunities faster.
• Build Authentic Confidence: Learn to embrace your value, speak up for what you deserve, and lead with authority.
• Create Balance and Fulfillment: Develop strategies to excel in your career without sacrificing your personal life or well-being.

You don’t have to settle for less or go it alone. With the right approach, you can turn your unique challenges into stepping stones for success. Start today—your thriving career awaits!

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Let’s Thrive Together

Ready to take the next step in your career journey? Let’s work together to unlock your potential, overcome workplace challenges, and create the career success you deserve. Schedule a V.I.P. Roadmap session with me today.

Let’s win together. 💼✨

I’m an ICF Professional Certified Coach (PCC) and a certified executive coach for Twanna Carter Professional & Personal Coaching, LLC. I flubbed my first career transition from the military so badly, it took me the next 10+ years to build my confidence and  recover. I know what it feels like to struggle with imposter syndrome and uncertainty about my leadership skills in the workplace. It’s why I am dedicated to empowering Black women. Helping them navigate career challenges and uncertainty by providing them with the tools and strategies they need to be successful. Schedule a V.I.P. Roadmap session today.

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