New Novel Addresses Race in the Workplace
Nationwide (BlackNews.com) — Many books on diversity rely on statistics to illuminate the issues of race in America. Others list pros and cons of diversity or defend the current status quo. Only Allison Manswells, Listen In: Crucial Conversations on Race in the Workplace takes a novel approach – literally.
The 100-page work of business fiction is set in todays corporate environment. Readers are able to Listen In as the characters, 5 African American professionals and entrepreneurs, discuss their professional struggles and personal experiences.
Like the readers, a curious CEO overhears the conversation and uses the information to revamp his companys approach to diversity and inclusion. And, its no longer business as usual.
While a work of fiction, the book is designed to make the real world better for everyone and give individual readers key strategies for career advancement. Howard J. Ross, an internationally recognized expert on diversity, says Allison Manswell has provided a thoughtful contribution to this challenge by giving us a way to conduct these conversations in a meaningful way. She approaches the issue with sensitivity and balance.
Manswell has been a human resources and talent management professional for over 18 years. Her book includes the issues of black hair, the contradiction of why height is not an advantage for Black males and how the #BlackLivesMatter movement impacts the workplace.
While the themes and blunt language pull no punches, the rewards to corporations include the ability to attract and retain minority talent, as well as, build trust and transform an organizations culture.
“The conversations we aren’t having are costing us trust, collaboration, and innovation. It is time to break the silence and move forward,” says Allison Manswell. The book is available on Amazon.com, and more details can be found at www.AllisonManswell.com
Photo Caption: Bookcover and author, Allison Manswell
