Ask ReproJobs: How can I support my Black boss?

Dear ReproJobs:

 I really appreciate ReproJobs sharing (very good, much needed) advice for managers on how to support their Black employees by giving them space to process and time to step away. I’m wondering what that advice would look like for (non-Black) employees with Black managers. On particularly difficult days, I’ll sometimes check in to see if there’s any work I can take over, or things I can help with. Is this appropriate? If it’s appropriate, is it sufficient? We have a great relationship and I want to support her as best as I can, but I feel like my options are limited given our positions.

– Supportive employee

Dear Supportive Employee,

This is a great start. It sounds like you and your boss could benefit from an open conversation about this to take the guesswork out of it. You can be direct with her – it’s not like she hasn’t noticed a pattern of when and how you make these offers. You could pro-actively fold it into your next check in and say something like, “Hey, I wanted to check in about something with you. You may have noticed that sometimes when something awful has happened to Black people and it’s in the news, I’ve offered to take work off your plate. I want to be supportive, but I’m not sure if that’s helpful. How has it been for you? What can I do to support you in those moments?” 

Then your boss can let you know herself if that’s appropriate and sufficient. Trust her to set those boundaries and expectations – she knows how to take care of herself. Everyone is different; she might want to keep her feelings and work separate, or she might want to have space to talk about it with you. Whatever she shares, respect it. 

Love,

ReproJobs