A recent investigation uncovered growing dissatisfaction among black and mixed-race PR professionals in the UK, with 68% considering leaving the field. This figure has seen a significant rise from previous rates of 12% in 2022 and 7% in 2020.
The One Step Forward Two Steps Black Survey, which surveyed 170 PR professionals, identified lack of representation and inclusion, inadequate recognition of skills, and a ‘glass ceiling’ hindering career progression as the primary issues.
Systemic racism within the sector was also reported as a contributing factor to their dissatisfaction, with a majority of participants considering diversity and inclusion efforts as mere ‘tick box’ exercises.
Professionals are now considering alternative fields like media, data analytics, research, and project management. Interestingly, 22% are interested in starting their own businesses, signifying a shift towards entrepreneurship.
The industry has seen a decrease in firms’ transparency regarding salaries and career progression routes.
Escalating dissatisfaction among UK’s black PR professionals
Only 35% of black and mixed-race PR professionals experienced openness in 2022, a decline from 51% in previous years, and almost half of the professionals identified missed promotional opportunities as grounds for seeking new jobs.
The industry’s tenure system shows that promotions usually occur after one to two years. As for the ideal tenure before job switch, 44% responded with two years, and three years was the second most favored response (32%).
Survey participants identified obstacles such as under-representation in leadership roles, relegation to lower-level positions, overlooked systemic racism, pay disparity, ‘unconscious bias’, lack of opportunities for professional development, and limitations in professional networking as hindrances to their professional growth.
End result: a mere 33% of participants were confident that their performance would determine their career trajectory.
The UK Black Comms Network calls for companies to ensure diversity and inclusion are integral parts of their strategies, to cultivate a more diverse and inclusive workplace.
