Nicole S. Palmer, writer, strategist, and unapologetic storyteller, launches her bold and thought-provoking debut, Playing the Game While Black Womaning in Corporate America. This groundbreaking book delivers a fresh and powerful perspective for Black women navigating corporate spaces, offering practical strategies to thrive in a system often designed to exclude them.
“Corporate America often feels like a game where the rules are unspoken, the players are unkind, and the board is rigged.” Palmer frames these challenges with clarity and purpose in Playing the Game, a must-read playbook that blends personal anecdotes with actionable insights. From understanding corporate dynamics to mastering the rules of self-preservation, Palmer equips readers to rewrite their narratives and claim their power.
Key lessons include:
• Recognizing the Game: “Corporate America isn’t just about ‘do good work, get rewarded.’ For us, it’s more like a slow-burn game of chess, requiring strategy, patience, and the ability to anticipate others’ moves.”
• Protecting Your Reputation: “The king also represents something more personal: your reputation. Once fortified, it’s a cornerstone asset that defines and protects your career trajectory.”
• Facing Microaggressions: “Yes, shade is inevitable, but it’s also irrelevant in the grand scheme of things… Don’t let their doubts cloud your confidence.”
• Building Your Strategy: “Each rule you uncover is a tool for navigating the board with confidence and clarity.”
With chapters that break down the universal rules of corporate America and explore the critical roles of allies, gatekeepers, and opponents, Palmer provides a detailed roadmap for success.
Why This Book Matters
Black women navigating corporate spaces often face unique challenges, from being underestimated to enduring microaggressions and shifting goalposts. Playing the Game confronts these realities head-on while empowering readers to take control of their careers.
“This book is for every Black queen who has ever felt unseen, underestimated, or held back by the unspoken rules,” Palmer says. “Corporate America isn’t a meritocracy. It’s a chessboard, and understanding the game can make all the difference.”
More than a guide, the book is a call to action for Black women to embrace their power and navigate corporate life on their terms.
This story was first reported on Blacknews.com
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