21 Comments
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Caterina's avatar

Such an important topic! I appreciated how you stressed the intersectional differences in negotiation. It also couldn't come at a better time, since I'm currently reading the negotiation book "Never split the difference" and learning so much about the different strategies and approaches!

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Emanuela B's avatar

Thank you for the reference, I'll add it to my reading list!

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Maria C's avatar

Love the insights in here and I knew this will resonate just from the title.

I have recently been labelled, again, as difficult despite acting in agreement and alignment with the wider team. Just being at the forefront and pushing back on things is not well received when raised by a foreign women in the context of a male dominated, indirect culture. Unfortunately, I'm still to decipher that one.

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Emanuela B's avatar

Ah Maria! I just noticed that my answer to you went to Gillian here below, I hope you have seen it ! Sorry !

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Maria C's avatar

Seen it now! It happened to me last week. Must be a glitch in the system.

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Emanuela B's avatar

Oh Maria, being labeled simply for asserting yourself is profoundly unfair. I understand the frustration and sense of injustice it brings—especially when others aren't subjected to the same treatment. I stand with you !

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Elizabeth Silleck La Rue, Esq.'s avatar

This right here - "Low-status individuals are punished for behaving in ways that are reserved for high-status individuals."

It is exhausting.

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Emanuela B's avatar

I completely relate: it's a marathon. Over time, we learn which battles are worth our energy and when it’s wiser to simply let go.

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JayJay (Justin J. Kiecker)'s avatar

Wonderful piece! Its so important and needs to be read by everyone. 🙏❤️

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Emanuela B's avatar

Thank you! I'm glad it was helpful. One of the aims of Inclusion Room is to shed light on situations we often struggle through thinking they're 'just normal'—when they’re not. It’s all part of building a truly inclusive workplace.

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Saurabh's avatar

An Interesting piece and important too it is best Thanks

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Emanuela B's avatar

Thank you, glad that could be helpful for you!

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Shartaya Mollett's avatar

Powerful and necessary. Thank you for shedding light on the cost some still bear for telling the truth.

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Emanuela B's avatar

And unfortunately, that cost isn’t the same for everyone. But becoming aware of the mechanisms behind it allows us to develop strategies to navigate it.

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Shartaya Mollett's avatar

So true. Awareness can’t change everything, but it helps us move more wisely through it.

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Heartfelt Boundaries's avatar

Wow. So much here and I love what you’ve shared. I’m always fascinated by cultural beliefs and norms and how they shape our lives and even our thoughts. This is right in line with that. And love the suggestions for how to effectively negotiate! 💙

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Emanuela B's avatar

I hope this interpretation of dynamics can support those who struggle to find their place at the table. I'm truly convinced that once you understand the mechanism, you can start to hack it.

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Linde Perelli's avatar

Exactly what I needed to read today. Thank you!

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Emanuela B's avatar

I am glad that this post was helpful for you and I hope you will find other interesting articles in Inclusion Room. Let keep in touch!

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Gillian Fletcher's avatar

I appreciate how you dissect the systemic barriers that continue to silence crucial voices while emphasizing the transformative power of self-advocacy. Excellent analysis and such an important message!

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Emanuela B's avatar

Thank you, Gillian. I truly believe that cultivating awareness is key to handling these kinds of situations more effectively and perhaps over time, to reduce bias.

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