Many Diverse-Owned Businesses Still Struggle to Hire

We are excited to share that Dr. Kim was recently interviewed about the topic of Black-owned businesses. This is the first public interview about her research.

Read the full article here: Many diverse-owned businesses still struggle to hire | News | insidetucsonbusiness.com

“Black-owned businesses often offer a sense of community and cultural affinity that may not be as pronounced in predominantly white organizations,” said Dr. Kim Davis, an Arizona State University grad who now runs a leadership consulting business in Chicago.

Her thesis dissertation chronicled her own personal story as “the only Black woman in (business) meetings,” recounting “the shock of realizing that your hiring was primarily driven by your race and gender rather than your undeniable competence, followed by the relentless scrutiny and micromanagement of your work.”

Getting out of such toxic work cultures can be life-changing, Davis says.

“This can lead to a more comfortable and affirming work environment where Black employees feel genuinely seen, heard and valued,” she said. “Such environments can significantly reduce the feelings of isolation and the pressure to assimilate into the dominant culture, which are common in other workplaces. The psychological safety found in these environments can enhance job satisfaction and reduce turnover.”