Young Black people change names on job applications and alter appearance at work to fit in
British Black people often feel forced to change their appearance and sometimes even alter their names to fit in at work according to the largest ever survey of Black Gen Z Talent in the UK conducted by Gen Z recruitment marketing agency, TapIn.
Data from the “This is Black Gen Z” report, the first research of its kind, TapIn revealed that 47% of Black Gen Z who are about to enter the workforce change their names to make it easier for colleagues to pronounce their names while 45% do not feel confident wearing their natural hair at work.
Over 2,000 Black people between the ages of 16-25 were surveyed and interviewed for the report in a bid to tap into their experiences of being Black in the workplace and to understand what motivates them to stay and ultimately perform.
The research focuses on how Black Gen Z finds jobs, how they navigate the application process, what types of support they want to see from current and future employers, and how authentic they feel they can be in the workplace.
This landmark report was backed by FTse 100 firms including Tesco and GSK.
Other key findings from the report include:
69% of Black Gen Z appreciate seeing people who look like them in job ads. Black Gen Z want to work for employers who take authentic action on Diversity and Inclusion by reflecting diversity in the workforce and promoting understanding and respect for diverse cultures.
22% of Black Gen Z changed their names on job applications to improve their chances of success. Black Gen Z navigate numerous barriers to employment compared to non-black peers, with nearly a quarter of respondents stating they changed their name and appearance in order to improve their chances at getting a job.
Just 29% of Black Gen Z felt satisfied with their chances of securing a promotion compared with 52% of White Gen Z and 62% of Asian Gen Z. Black Gen Z want to thrive and not just survive in the workplace, but they consistently report feeling a lack of confidence in their ability to secure future job promotions.
Milimo Banji CEO of TapIn said: “Our report is a wake up call for employers across the country. We found that Black Gen Z can really thrive when supported to be their authentic selves in the workplace. But there are still too many barriers and hoops for them to jump through.
“Something as simple as having to change your name that colleagues keep getting wrong can have a profound impact on Black employees. They shouldn’t have to think twice about wearing their natural hair to work. It’s been said that people find it easier to pronounce names of fictional characters on Game of Thrones like Daenerys Targaryen than colleagues with non-anglicised names. That needs to change.
“This is Black Gen Z includes clear and tangible recommendations that employers can implement in the workplace.”
This is Black Gen Z also found there are serious concerns about the cost of living crisis among Black Gen Z. TapIn’s research revealed 63% of respondents felt salary included on an advert was an influential factor when applying for a role. 49% wanted to make enough money just to cover basic expenses while a further 63% wanted to make enough money to support their lifestyles and to live beyond paycheck to paycheck living.
For employees, there are “huge benefits” when Black Gen Z can be themselves in the workplace. The report states: “When they thrive – rather than just survive – in the workplace, Black Gen Z perform to the best of their ability, feel passionate and committed about their work, and are more likely to stay with their employer.”
