Some of the most accomplished minority executives in corporate America have achieved their high levels of success by using proactive strategies to confront prejudice head-on, according to a recent survey. They have done this in the face of significant discrimination encountered in the workplace. African Americans account for 58 percent of respondents, Asian Americans 23 percent and Hispanics 15 percent, with the remaining participants being of mixed heritage.
Respondents also analyze situations to develop a plan before responding.
Least effective means of responding to discrimination were identified as going along with it, withdrawing and becoming a silent observer, and getting angry and silently stewing. Some studies suggest that minority executives are also faced with more physical problems related to stress than their white counterparts. The survey identified methods for managing stress that are associated with higher compensation. Family support is a key to success for many of the respondents. Most of the executives are married and have children.