Dr. LeKeshia Mathis is a prominent figure in the fields of social work and mental health. As the founder of Evolutionary Services and Consulting, she brings over a decade of experience in these areas.
In Western societies, the prevailing standards of professionalism are designed to establish a consistent framework for behavior in the workplace; however, they often reflect and reinforce cultural prejudices. Despite the evolution of these standards over time, they still tend to benefit certain groups while sidelining others. Traditional criteria for professionalism generally align with Western, white cultural values, which can disadvantage a range of diverse lifestyles.
What is the history of Western society's professional standards?
The professional standards governing the History of Western Society consist of a comprehensive framework of ethical principles and practices that historians are required to adhere to in their scholarly endeavors. The purpose of creating such standards was to establish professional guidelines to safeguard and maintain distinct knowledge, skills, and expertise domains. In Western societies, the establishment of professional standards was intended to highlight the importance of ethical behavior and integrity within various professions. These standards serve as a framework to ensure that individuals maintain a high level of competence and engage in continuous professional development. Furthermore, they underscore the necessity of accountability and responsibility in professional practices, ensuring that practitioners are answerable for their actions and decisions. Deluca, S., Hall, J., & Khalili, H. (2014).
What are Western society's professional standards?
The original intent behind the establishment of professional standards has evolved significantly over time, leading to a divergence from their foundational purpose. Rather than emphasizing the essential elements of knowledge, skills, and expertise that were initially prioritized, contemporary expectations have shifted towards superficial aspects such as dress codes and personal appearance. This change reflects a growing preoccupation with how individuals present themselves in professional settings, overshadowing the core competencies that these standards were designed to uphold. Implementing current professional standards across various fields has led to significant criticism, as these standards often establish and perpetuate cultural biases. Despite the evolution of these standards over time, they frequently favor specific groups, thereby creating an imbalance that disadvantages others. This dynamic raises important questions about equity and inclusivity within professional practices.
Three types of professional standards highlighted
1. Dress code and appearance
In many Western workplaces, adherence to a formal dress code is seen as a hallmark of professionalism. However, this rigid framework can lead to the exclusion of diverse cultural expressions, particularly those that are integral to the identities of individuals from non-Western cultures or Black communities. The emphasis on conventional attire often overlooks the significance of cultural garments and hairstyles, which can serve as vital representations of heritage and personal identity. Expectations regarding dress and appearance typically encompass several key elements:
Hairstyles characterized by a polished appearance frequently correspond with the textures and styles typically associated with white hair. Hence, women sporting afros, braids, or twists may be perceived as less professional according to the established standards.
Women are permitted to wear earrings, usually one pair, while men are generally forbidden from wearing them. The significance of Native American earrings extends deeply into cultural and spiritual realms. Imposing restrictions on their use effectively prevents Native American men from expressing their heritage and cultural values. Earrings Enthusiast
Gendered dress codes require men to wear one set of clothing (e.g., suits) and women to wear another set of clothing (e.g., modest dresses). Additionally, women’s bodies are often more policed with rules about exposed shoulders, knees, etc. Furthermore, some cultural or religious attire, like head coverings, may be restricted.
2. Communication styles
The standards prevalent in Western societies may pose challenges for individuals hailing from cultures that employ distinct communication styles or for those who are not proficient in English. These societal norms often emphasize directness, assertiveness, and a particular form of discourse that may not align with the practices of other cultural backgrounds. Consequently, individuals who communicate in a more indirect or nuanced manner may find themselves at a disadvantage, as their intentions and messages might be misinterpreted or overlooked.
3. Work style and time management
The workplace environment in North America and Western Europe often champions individual accomplishments and performance that is oriented towards tangible results. Organizations within these regions frequently prioritize goal-setting and the attainment of measurable outcomes, fostering a culture where personal achievement is highly valued. Employees are generally encouraged to engage in multitasking and to effectively manage their time to enhance overall productivity, which is seen as a critical component of professional success. Cheng, Y., & Groysberg, B. (2020). Such a perspective may lead to a predisposition against individuals originating from Eastern cultures, which prioritize interpersonal relationships and contextual understanding. In these cultures, the significance of flexibility in schedules and deadlines is paramount, reflecting a broader worldview where time is perceived as fluid and cyclical rather than strictly linear. This cultural framework emphasizes the importance of social connections and the nuances of situational context, which can be at odds with more rigid, time-oriented approaches. Eastern and Western Differences.
Negative impacts of biased professionalism norms
The detrimental effects of biased professional standards are multifaceted and significant. They hinder individuals from marginalized backgrounds from fully expressing their identities within the workplace, thereby stifling diversity and inclusion. Such biases can result in discriminatory practices during recruitment, termination, and everyday management, perpetuating an inequitable work environment. Furthermore, these norms compel employees to suppress their true selves and humanity, leading to a culture of inauthenticity and disengagement. Additionally, they create barriers for those who experience bias and discrimination, leaving them without adequate support or avenues for redress. Ultimately, these biased norms serve to reinforce and perpetuate various forms of discrimination, including racism, sexism, classism, and ableism, thereby undermining the principles of equity and justice in professional settings.
4 ways to foster inclusive and equitable
1. Revise policies and practices
To foster a more inclusive and equitable workplace, organizations should undertake a comprehensive revision of their policies and practices. This process should include creating gender-neutral, unbiased dress codes that respect individual expression while maintaining professionalism. Implementing flexible work arrangements that accommodate diverse needs is crucial for supporting employees with various personal and family responsibilities. Developing equitable hiring and promotion practices ensures that all candidates are evaluated fairly based on their qualifications and potential. It's essential to critically examine existing standards and policies for bias, addressing any discriminatory elements that may have been overlooked. Embracing cultural differences in dress, speech, and work styles, as well as diverse cultural expressions in appearance and communication, creates a more welcoming environment for employees from all backgrounds. Ultimately, the focus should shift towards competence and results rather than conformity to arbitrary standards, allowing employees to contribute their best work in a way that aligns with their individual strengths and cultural identities.
2. Reimagining organizational culture
The concept of organizational culture can be transformed by emphasizing the importance of interdependence among team members instead of fostering a sense of individualism. This shift encourages collaboration and collective responsibility, allowing employees to recognize that their contributions are interconnected and vital to the organization's overall success. By cultivating an environment where teamwork is prioritized, organizations can enhance communication, build trust, and create a more cohesive workplace that thrives on shared goals and mutual support.
3. Foster inclusive communication
Promoting inclusive communication necessitates encouraging and facilitating open and courageous dialogues surrounding issues of bias and discrimination. Creating an environment where individuals feel safe and empowered to express their thoughts and experiences related to these critical topics is essential. By fostering such conversations, organizations can address underlying prejudices and work towards a more equitable atmosphere that values every voice.
4. Embrace authenticity
Acknowledging that professionalism does not necessitate the suppression of personal identity is crucial for cultivating a healthy workplace culture. Organizations should actively promote an environment where mistakes are viewed as opportunities for growth and learning rather than as failures. This approach encourages innovation and creativity and helps dismantle the detrimental effects of perfectionism and the pressure of an urgency-driven culture, allowing employees to thrive without the fear of judgment.
Decolonizing professionalism is not a one-time initiative but rather an ongoing commitment that necessitates continuous self-reflection and a readiness to confront deeply rooted assumptions. This process provides a valuable opportunity for organizations to cultivate workplaces that genuinely appreciate and support all employees, irrespective of their backgrounds or identities. By prioritizing inclusivity and equity, organizations can create a culture that not only benefits their workforce but also contributes positively to the broader societal landscape.
Summary
Many professionalism standards are steeped in a colonial mindset that encourages detrimental practices such as urgency culture, perfectionism, and power-hoarding. By shifting towards values that are more aligned with Indigenous principles—such as interdependence, humility, and balance—organizations can cultivate a healthier and more sustainable workplace culture that benefits all employees. Consequently, this can lead to genuine employee morale, characterized by a reduction in burnout, enhanced mental stability among individuals, and an overall increase in happiness.
Read more from LeKeshia Harless Mathis
LeKeshia Harless Mathis, Advocate, Advisor and Mentor
Dr. LeKeshia Mathis is an influential leader in social work and mental health. Her earlier work in child welfare has led her to a profound commitment to helping those facing mental health challenges, racial disparities, and inequalities, especially within underserved communities. She has dedicated her life to empowering, supporting, and advocating for individuals from all walks of life. As the CEO of Evolutionary Services and Consulting, she is focused on helping individuals discover and embrace their true potential.
