New research reveals that 68% of Black and mixed-race professionals in the PR industry are considering leaving due to racial bias and a severe lack of diversity in senior roles. The study raises pressing questions about inclusivity and representation.
The study uncovers these professionals’ daily challenges and biases, significantly hindering their progression opportunities. Despite efforts to improve diversity and inclusion, satisfaction among Black PR professionals remains low. A call to action urges comprehensive changes and a fundamental shift in industry culture to rectify existing disparities.
The ‘One Step Forward Two Steps Black” survey documents an increase from 7% to 12% in participants considering leaving the industry since 2020. This growing disillusionment suggests issues requiring urgent examination and solutions.
Dismantling racial bias in the PR industry
Key dissatisfaction factors include inadequate remuneration, limited career development, neglected microaggressions, and lack of work-life balance.
Only 35% of Black and mixed-race communications professionals believe their companies are transparent about pay and career advancement. This figure is down from 51% in 2022. Compared with an also diminishing 25% of Asian and 50% of White professionals, it seems the industry seems plagued by growing concerns over pay transparency and career opportunities.
The study found 46% of these professionals switch companies due to lack of promotions, a figure that has remained the same since 2020. Other reasons include dissatisfaction with leadership (39%), inadequate compensation and benefits (32%), and work-life balance issues (30%).
In career progression discussions, a considerable 75% of participants cite lack of representation in leadership as a major obstacle. With only 30% envisioning themselves in top communications roles, down from 50% in 2022, and 80% identifying lack of mentorship as a career growth barrier, it’s clear entities need comprehensive strategies that foster genuine diversity and inclusion.
A resounding 70% of respondents felt their companies’ racial equality efforts were insincere or tokenistic, highlighting a disconnect between stated corporate values of diversity and inclusion, and their implementation. It’s time for businesses to heed the call for industry-wide changes.
