While we proudly value the cultural message we grew up with that the family was and is the primary source of our identity and support, this does not mean that we are any less dedicated to organizational success than any other group.  In fact, knowing how to dedicate oneself to the well-being of others is a valuable skill in today’s new workplace.  We bring the potential for greater cohesiveness and stronger teams to the groups we work with as we put into practice our cultural promise .  As defined by CHL:

“Our familial style of relating brings potentially everyone within the circle. The strongest bonds in business, across the entire value chain, occur when employees, partners and distributors alike are treated like family. The treatment is reciprocated and opportunities continue to arise. Our cultural promise is that success comes most to those who are surrounded by people who want their success to continue. “

While this ability to create mutual support and alignment within workgroups is a success factor for all employees, for Latinas it has particular impact.  Throughout our lives, we have been taught to pay attention to the needs of others and work to see that all members of the group feel included and valued.  

While others who have been oriented in a highly individualistic culture may struggle to become more team-oriented, for Latinas, it is already deeply embedded in our DNA.  Whether at home, in our communities or at work, our willingness to take into account the well-being of each individual and find innovative ways to bring people together is the cultural promise that is yet to be realized in most corporations today.  The challenge for Latinas is to make the connections in our own minds between our dedication to family AND to our organizations and articulate the business case to their leaders.

http://www.glennllopis.com/2011/08/4-ways-to-regain-control-of-your-identity-in-the-workplace.html

For organizations, recognizing and supporting Latinas to manage the dilemmas they face balancing these dual commitments will pay off with greater loyalty and dedication by these valuable contributors.  What are you doing to claim your identity and integrate the culture of your family with the culture of your workplace?