How do I adjust to a North American workplace as an African?

All images in this Byte created by the author using ChatGPT. To hear an audio description of each image, click the play button on the audio player below:

Let’s set the scene.

• Tayo just landed her dream job in North America. She’s a survivor!

• She survived immigration paperwork and re-certification exams for a job she could already perform in her sleep.

• She’s even survived figuring out why everyone keeps talking about the weather, every day, several times a day.

But now Tayo is faced with something far more confusing in the workplace...

• Her coworkers give feedback like they're commenting on YouTube videos.

• Also, apparently discussing one’s private weekend plans during a work-related conference call is "networking".

• One of her subordinates greeted her by name with a casual “Hello, Tayo!” (not "Madam"?!)

• Oh, and now the COO (who happens to be the boss of her boss), tells Tayo, “Just call me Sally."

What level of trickery is this? Can Tayo survive her new job in this new country?

Let’s help her with some tips for navigating the challenges of culture shock at work faced by African professionals transitioning to work in North America. Ready?

It's Tayo's third week at her new job and her team is having a spirited brainstorming session. Tayo silently takes it all in.

Now, let’s see if we can give Tayo a "do-over" with a better response. Review the following response options:

A: "I think the idea of using stories and micro-influencers has potential. But I'm still learning how that works here, so I'll defer to the others."

B: "One thought I had is that we could partner with micro-influencers because they often have strong engagement with niche audiences. What do you think?"

C: “I’m not sure, really. Can I research some more and circle back?"

D: “I’d focus solely on micro-influencers. That's definitely the right approach for this campaign.”

Tayo has crafted a long, detailed email requesting budget approval.

Based on her coworker’s feedback, Tayo revamped her approach and sent a more effective email:

What happens when Tayo runs into senior executives in the elevator and has to make small talk? Let's find out.

What should Tayo do next? Review the following response options:

A: Smile back and say, “I'm trying this new restaurant with friends. How about you?"

B: Say nothing. The question was probably not meant for her since she doesn’t really know them "like that".

C: Smile back and jokingly say, “Sorry, but at work, I only think about work things.”

D: Suddenly remember she forgot something at her desk and make a quick escape before the elevator doors close. 

Africa is a massive, diverse continent spanning 54 countries with hundreds of distinct cultures and communication styles. Across the continent, the values of community, respect for elders, and relationship-first communication run deep.

But North American workplaces often operate on a different frequency: flat structures, direct feedback, individualism, and clock-watching. You don't have to become "more North American" or "less African".

The goal is learning when workplace expectations differ, and adapting strategically while remaining authentic.

Over the next few weeks, try these steps: