Breaking the Bamboo Ceiling

Description

An essential career guide for every Asian American—and all their co-workers and managers—that explains how traditional Asian cultural values are at odds with Western corporate culture.

Leading Asian American career coach and advocate Jane Hyun explains that the lack of Asian Americans in executive suite positions is brought about by a combination of Asian cultures and traditions strait-jacketing Asian Americans in the workplace, and how the group’s lack of vocal affirmation in popular media and culture, afflicts them with a “perpetual foreigner syndrome” in the eyes of Americans who don’t know enough to understand the challenges placed on Asian Americans in the corporate environment.

Filled with anecdotes and case studies from her own consulting experience covering the gamut of Asian Americans from various backgrounds, the book discusses how being Asian affects the way they interact with colleagues, managers, and clients, and will offer advice and real world solutions while exposing the challenges encountered.

For the Asian reader, the book will help them to see the cultural barriers they subconsciously place in their own career paths and how to overcome them. For the non-Asian reader, the book serves as a primer for promoting optimal working relationships with Asians, and will help start a dialogue that will benefit all.

“A well-written, easy to read and thorough compendium for every Asian who wants to move up the ladder.” “[This] is the book Asian Americans in the workplace have needed for decades.” Hyun’s help is multiple… Enlightening—and very necessary. “A useful guide for anyone seeking advice on how to get ahead in business.” “An important book for anyone hoping the make that career move…and realize his full professional potential.” “Should be required reading for both Asian and non-Asian readers.” “Jane shows how cultural values can adversely impact workplace behavior, and provides tips for overcoming those differences.” “This much-needed work … will be hugely valuable to anyone who’s interested in achieving cultural fluency in the workplace.” “Jane Hyun confronts the dilemma of how to be an Asian in America…a truly valuable and insightful resource.” “Powerful … Hyun presents valuable strategic and tactical next steps that Asian professionals can implement to advance their careers.” “A clear, straightforward guide to easing cultural barriers between Asian Americans and their non-Asian counterparts.” “Knowing yourself and the values that you hold are integral steps to developing leadership competencies… A must read .” “Provocative, thoughtful, and engaging … offers insights and strategies for all persons of Asian descent striving for career advancement and success.” “I strongly recommend this book to anyone who is committed to diversity and inclusion.” “Read this book and find out how best to manage your career in today’s multicultural workplace.” “(Empowers) individuals to take charge of their careers and gives them the tools to navigate the corporate structure.” “(Gives) a set of maps to define, measure and envision professional lives… Hyun reveals truths that often remain unspoken.” “Inspiring and engaging! Every Asian professional and student, (and) anyone who works with them, should read this book.” “Finally! A book that addresses the truth and shatters so many myths and misconceptions about Asian Americans in the workplace.” “Addresses an issue that most of corporate America and diversity experts have been silent about… [an] important work.” “Practical, personable and strategic, Jane Hyun is the workplace mentor every Asian American would like to have.” “Read it, and find clarity about who you are and what you want to become.” “Filling a void where generic career guides leave off, this is a crucial handbook for anyone in today’s multicultural workplace.” “[Shows] where the gaps between the Asian American and business perspectives are, and how we can bridge these differences.”

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