hectic, work, life, balance
by Pervis Taylor, III

February 13, 2024

Achieve Your Career Goals While Maintaining Personal Balance

How does one satisfy both desires? Balance. Too often we are running around like chickens with our heads cut off to achieve things.

Originally Published Sep. 9, 2014

Imagine working your butt off for five years straight. Working 70 to 80 hours a week with little to no sleep is just the norm for you. Never mind the premature graying and migraine headaches that you’ve developed all for that magical moment of being named partner. Think about all that you’ve missed, from weddings to quality time with family, all for that anti-climatic moment. Was it worth it?

Now, if you are using money as a metric, I’m sure you would say yes.

However, if you factor in the hours of your life that you will never get back, all for a title and possibly a new parking space – was it all worth it? As a life coach, I primarily deal with individuals who are extremely successful outwardly, but have neglected themselves and others. That risk cost them more than just time. It also cost them relationships and moments of joy that far outweigh any paycheck.

I’m here to offer you some key tools on keeping balance in your life.  Make no mistake, I want you to get the title. I just want you to get that title with joy.  Here we go:

Time with friends and family

Never break or reschedule this time for work unless it’s dire. Show those who matter to you that you matter to them. Remember, consistency provides comfort, especially in relationships.

Fitness

You have to take care of you. Exercise provides a release and gives clarity. The endorphins released provide energy and mental stability.

Date Night

I don’t mean with your spouse or significant other. I mean you. Take yourself out and spend some time hanging out with you. Even if it’s just playing music in your room. Zone out and leave work at work. Turn off work mode and turn on life mode.  Find time to enjoy yourself.

Work Efficiency

Not everything requires hours of work. Find efficient ways to lighten your load. If you take some time out to carefully examine your work load, you will discover there are some smart shortcuts that will help you cut back hours you spend at work.

Definitive Desires

It’s important to know why you want that title. Is it to stunt on social media, is it to fulfill an insecurity of yours, or do you truly desire to use that platform as a means for change?  Knowing why we do the things we do will always help us in our choices.

Remember, we have the ability to not only change our world, but the world as a whole. Be great!

Article Written by Pervis Taylor

RELATED CONTENT: Eve Gets Candid About Life And Career In Upcoming Memoir ‘Who’s That Girl’

Negotiating,vendors, Strategies
by Rafael Pena

February 13, 2024

Former Goldman Sachs Recruiter Unveils Salary Negotiation Hacks For Job Seekers

A recruiter is turning the tables with negotiation hacks, offering practical advice on how job seekers can leverage pay range information.

According to NBC News, Chanelle Howell, a 31-year-old recruiter based in New York City, is turning the tables with negotiation hacks, offering practical advice on how job seekers can leverage pay range information to their advantage in a landscape where transparency in salary information is increasing, Howell, drawing from her extensive experience working for prominent firms like Goldman Sachs and Bridgewater Associates, shares valuable insights on effective negotiation strategies.

@chanelle.howell

You can never have too much money… new hack to get you the most money possible #recruitertips #20something #negotiationtips #opentowork

♬ original sound – Chanelle Howell

With over a dozen states and jurisdictions implementing pay disclosure laws, job seekers can now access salary ranges for open positions. Howell emphasizes the power of a single question during a job interview: “Can you tell me what skills and experiences separate the $100,000 candidate from the $150,000 candidate?” This question prompts hiring managers to outline the criteria for determining compensation within a given range.

Howell advises candidates to weave these criteria into their interview discussions, emphasizing their skills and accomplishments that align with the higher end of the salary spectrum. According to Howell, the key is to consistently highlight these qualities throughout the interview process, building a compelling case for why the candidate deserves the top-tier salary.

As negotiations progress, Howell’s hacks encourage candidates to leverage the information gathered during the interview. By quoting the hiring manager’s own words, candidates can articulate why they merit a higher salary, aligning themselves with the expectations set for top-paid candidates.

Even in regions where pay range disclosures are not mandatory, Howell suggests referencing the growing trend of transparency and expressing a desire for similar openness: “Given new pay transparency laws, a lot of companies are sharing pay ranges with candidates. Can you share the range for this role?”

Howell shares success stories of individuals who used this approach to negotiate substantial increases in their initial offers. One marketing client negotiated a 20% increase, amounting to a $15,000 to $20,000 boost, employing Howell’s framework effectively.

In situations where the salary range appears overly broad, Howell recommends asking what distinguishes a candidate at the top of the range. Additionally, if the initial offer falls short, candidates can inquire about median pay levels and ways to stand out within that framework.

Howell reminds job seekers that base pay is just one aspect of compensation, encouraging them to explore other elements like signing bonuses, performance-based bonuses, and equity during negotiations.

In a job market where wage growth has slowed post-pandemic, Howell’s approach provides a strategic roadmap for candidates seeking fair and competitive compensation.

RELATED CONTENT: Master The Art Of Salary Negotiation: 4 Tips To Secure Your Financial Future

tiktok , Black history, Harriet Tubman,
by Stacy Jackson

February 13, 2024

Rare 1892 Portrait Found Of Harriet Tubman At Age 70

The article found alongside the Harriet Tubman portrait was written using a racist style known as "plantation dialect."

A Maryland tour organization unveiled a newly discovered photo of Harriet Tubman, this one from 1892, capturing the iconic abolitionist around age 70.

Harriet Tubman Tours owner Alex Green told The Citizen that the rare portrait is from an 1892 edition of The Household Magazine. It depicts Tubman in a decorative dark dress with a pinned-up hairstyle. The accompanying caption identifies her as “Harriet, the Modern Moses, now living in Auburn, N.Y.“

An article alongside the photo, which Green noted was written using a racist style called “plantation dialect,” features an extended Tubman quote about a traumatic incident as an enslaved teen in Dorchester County where she was struck in the head by a two-pound weight hurled at another enslaved person. The incident left her with a fractured skull, which caused lasting epilepsy and visions that Tubman believed opened deeper spiritual insights.

“One night I went to de store with de cook to git some things for de house,” the article reads. “I was ‘shamed to go in, so I stayed outside. Pretty soon, I heard loud talkin’ in de store an’ saw de oberseerer raisin’ up his arm to trow a two-pound iron weight at one ob de slaves.”

Green’s wife, Lisa, posted the rare portrait on social media, which grasped the attention of Tubman biographer Kate Clifford Larson, who also shared the discovery on Facebook. “Such style!” Larson raved of the “beautiful” depiction. She thanked the couple for unearthing another glimpse into Tubman’s life, expressing hopes the original print will surface, too.

This newest photo caps several of the 2022 findings by Harriet Tubman Tours. Last December, they released another never-before-seen 1908 image of Tubman at her Auburn, NY residence. “I thought it’d be interesting to move the needle forward with her wonderful life,” Green stated last year. “History has so much to catch up to.”

“I hope the photos generate more interest in Tubman, her life, and her work to achieve freedom for all,” Green said. The newest magazine portrait offers another chance to inspire learners about her tireless crusade for liberty.

Gin and Juice, gin, juice, dr. dre, snoop dogg, doggystyle, album, 30 years, anniversary, drink, cocktail, alcoholic
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

February 13, 2024

Snoop Dogg And Dr. Dre Turn ‘Gin & Juice’ Into A Business Venture

In celebration of the 30th anniversary of "Doggystyle," Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre have launched Gin & Juice by Dre and Snoop.

Although the pair did not create gin and juice, Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre did have a hand in popularizing the drink in the hip-hop community 30 years ago. Now, Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre have released their canned version of the mixed cocktail, Gin & Juice By Dre and Snoop.

In celebration of the 30th anniversary of Snoop Dogg’s classic hip-hop debut album “Doggystyle,” produced by Dr. Dre, the pair launched the canned alcoholic beverage. The cocktail is named after the second single, “Gin and Juice,” from the legendary debut album. Dre and Snoop hosted a Super Bowl afterparty at Wynn Las Vegas, where they launched their new product and treated attendees to a surprise performance.

“Together, we always try to create magic, we’re having fun being creative, and everything about this product is really us,” said Dr. Dre in a written statement. “There’s passion behind it, and friendship and love and a culture. We’re shooting to make everything we do magnificent, and fortunately, most of the time we hit the target.”

The ready-to-drink beverage comes in four flavors: Citrus, Melon, Passionfruit, and Apricot. Gin & Juice By Dre and Snoop will be available US-wide by early spring. The newly formed spirits company is looking to offer more products in the future that will be distributed nationally through Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits, the largest beverage distributor in the United States.

“Look where we’re at in our careers,” says Snoop Dogg. “Look at our age and look at what we’ve done, and we still love each other, so why not do something together? A lot of times people have been in a relationship for thirty years and can’t talk to each other, can’t hang out, so it’s just fun to be in a partnership with people that you actually love.”

This is the duo’s first collaboration in the wine and spirits industry.

RELATED CONTENT: Snoop Dogg And Master P Sue Walmart For Allegedly Keeping Snoop Cereal In Stockrooms

lawsuit, police chief, discrimination, West Virginia, Khloé
by Rafael Pena

February 13, 2024

Good American Clothing Company Faces Wrongful Termination Lawsuit Over Cancer Diagnosis

There's been no comment from Khloe.

Clothing company Good American is facing legal action from a former employee who alleges wrongful termination in October 2023.

According to the Good American website, the company was founded by Khloe Kardashian and Emma Grede in 2016. The brand’s mission is to provide women’s clothing crafted by women, catering to all body shapes. From its beginnings, Good American has transformed into an iconic and all-encompassing fashion brand. Neither Kardashian nor Grede were named in the lawsuit.

Brooke, the person named as the plaintiff, initially joined the company as an intern in 2019 and reportedly climbed the professional ladder, but faced dismissal shortly after requesting to work remotely due to a cancer diagnosis in 2023.

Brooke received commendable performance reviews, multiple promotions, and salary increases throughout her tenure. The former intern ascended to the position of Marketing Coordinator in June 2021 and subsequently transitioned to the social media team in June 2022. She also received a bump in pay.

A performance review from February 2022 characterized her as a “team player who gets the job done” and was a high-pressure performer. It highlighted her as a “great multitasker” and an “asset to the team,” emphasizing her dedication and going “above and beyond.” Further demonstrating her competence, she received another raise in February 2023.

However, after informing her employer about her cancer diagnosis in June 2023, the situation took a turn for the worse. Despite providing doctor’s notes recommending her to work from home due to health vulnerabilities, Brooke alleges facing negative comments from executives.

She asserted that she was advised to take a medical leave of absence versus working remotely. Brooke had previously been allowed to do so.

In September 2023, her doctor recommended remote work to minimize physical contact to reduce the risk of respiratory infections. Despite her positive track record, she was terminated in October 2023. Good American cited “company-wide layoffs”‘” affecting a dozen employees, but the former worker claims her dismissal was a result of her cancer.

RELATED CONTENT: Social Media Questions Why Khloe Kardashian’s Good American is Listed in Nordstrom’s ‘Black-Owned’ Section

Don, Lemon, released, arrest
by Jeroslyn JoVonn

February 13, 2024

Don Lemon Doesn’t ‘Have To Worry About Getting In Trouble’ On His New Show

Don Lemon is gearing up for his return to news by way of his new X talk show.

Don Lemon is gearing up for his return to news by way of “The Don Lemon Show,” on X.

Last month, Lemon announced that his new show would allow him to be “bigger, bolder, freer,” and that it will be available to anyone by way of the Twitter/X platform.

Now, as he gears up for the launch, Lemon is sharing how much more he enjoys his new work style.

“It’s a lot of work, so I really enjoy doing it — but it is a little bit unnerving because it is new, but exciting,” he told “Page Six.”

“I am going to be the same — but more. Just wait, I don’t have to worry about getting in trouble. Freedom it’s the best feeling, freedom.”

When asked about the leniency he’s afforded on Elon Musk’s X platform, Lemon said that for one, his beauty routine was more laid-back than during his days on CNN.

“I don’t really need makeup. I can get somebody to do my makeup, but I have done my own for a long time… When I am out on the field I do it on my own,” he said.

“I don’t mind my phone not ringing. I like the peace. I have always known who my real friends are… I don’t hold grudges. You do you, I do me.”

Last week, Lemon teased his return in a tweet that celebrated Black History Month.

“Starting off this 5th day of #BlackHistoryMonth by gearing up for #TheDonLemonShow & thanking God & the ancestors for blessings in disguise,” he wrote. “🙏🏾Wishing you a prosperous day as well. How y’all doing?”

https://twitter.com/donlemon/status/1754526411593818165

Lemon was fired from CNN in April 2023 by former CEO Chris Licht, who was later axed from the news network himself. However, the CNN doesn’t mind reminiscing about the “good old days” on the network with his former colleagues.

“Boy, did we keep it fun and interesting! Ah, the good old days. Happy Black History Month!” he wrote in a tweet at the start of Black History Month.

Jay-Z, old west, black folks, book of Clarence, new testament, film, produce, movie, Reebok, super bowl
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

February 13, 2024

Jay-Z Sports Reebok S. Carters At Super Bowl

The billionaire rapper was seen on the football field wearing a throwback pair of the 2003 S. Carter Collection Reeboks

Over 20 years ago, in 2003, a young rapper named Shawn Corey Carter, also known as Jay-Z, in collaboration with Reebok, released a pair of sneakers, the “S. Carter Collection.” Now, in 2024, those same sneakers were donned by Jay-Z at this year’s Super Bowl game that pitted the Kansas City Chiefs against the San Francisco 49ers.

According to Footwear News, while the billionaire rapper was on the football field at Sunday’s event, he was wearing a pair of the Reebok sneakers that Foot Locker sold exclusively in its stores when they debuted. The footwear, which resembled white Gucci sneakers from 1984, sold 10,000 pairs mere hours after they went on sale.

Complex reported that Jay-Z signed the deal with the sneaker brand in 2002. Along with his rival 50 Cent securing an agreement with the sneaker brand, the partnership with both rappers was responsible for a rise in sales for Reebok: The company saw an 11% jump in footwear sales and a 20% gain in shares. The deal lasted four more years before the “Hard Knock Life” rapper walked away from the partnership. Is there a resurgence of the sneaker on tap? With Jay-Z you never know, but so far there has been no announcement.

The businessman attended the game with his wife, Beyoncé, and daughters Blue Ivy, 12, and Rumi, 6. Meanwhile, Beyoncé may have taken a little attention away from the teams and Usher when it was announced she would be dropping her latest project next month, on March 29.

“OK, they ready! Drop the new music.”

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Beyoncé (@beyonce)

The “Lemonade” performer also released two new country-themed songs co-written and co-produced by Tony! Toni! Toné!’s Raphael Saadiq, called “Texas Hold ’Em” and “16 Carriages.”

Now, the world awaits the next album and project to drop, and it won’t be that much longer.

RELATED CONTENT: Reebok Inks LSU Star Angel Reese To Brand’s First NIL Deal

Edward J. Dwight, NASA
by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

February 13, 2024

‘The Space Race’ Documentary Spotlights First Pioneer Of Black NASA Astronauts

The lesser-known story of Ed Dwight, who would've been the world's first Black astronaut, is being spotlighted in a new documentary, 'The Space Race.'

Ed Dwight, the first man to make history for Black astronauts in NASA, is finally receiving his due in the spotlight. His story is being shared in a new National Geographic documentary called The Space Race.

Born in Kansas in the 1930s, Dwight had a passion for aviation starting at a young age. He noted the freedom that being in the sky granted him, a rare feeling for a Black person during that time.

“My first flight was the most exhilarating thing in the world,” shared Dwight, now 90, with NBC News. “There were no streets or stop signs up there. You were free as a bird.”

His dreams seemed impossible until the Black pilots in the Korean War made Dwight realize the career was up for grabs through the Air Force. His matriculation led to him joining the test pilot program at Edwards Air Force base, a move championed by President John F. Kennedy. However, Kennedy’s assassination led to further discrimination within the program, dashing Dwight’s dream to become the first Black astronaut.

“They were all instructed to give me the cold shoulder,” Dwight says. “Yeager [air force officer] had a meeting with the students and the staff in the auditorium and announced it — that Washington was trying to shove this N-word down our throats.”

Dwight’s dismissal from the program left diversity for NASA in limbo, with the first Black man to reach space not occurring until Guion Bluford in 1983, 20 years after Dwight left NASA.

The Space Race aims to reinstate Dwight’s role in the history of Black astronauts and NASA, focusing not only on those who finally made it up to the stars, but also pioneers like Dwight who faced the brunt of discrimination to get them there.

Bernard Harris, one of the first Black astronauts, shared what Dwight’s presence in space would have done for humanity and the fight for civil rights.

“Space really allows us to realize the hope that’s within all of us as human beings,” explained Harris. “So to see a Black man in space during that period in time, it would have changed things.”

Although his path was different from his successors’, Dwight is a critical part of Black history, for his determination to chase his dreams despite the obstacles he faced.

“Ed is so important for everyone who’s followed after, to recognize and embrace the shoulders they stand on,” expressed Lisa Cortés, co-director of The Space Race. “There’s the history we know and the history that’s not had the opportunity to be highlighted.”

The Space Race premieres Feb. 12 on National Geographic, with streaming the following day on Disney+ and Hulu.

RELATED CONTENT: NASA Space Tech Catalyst Prize: Recognizing Diversity In Space Technology Innovation

Super Bowl, Soulful Celebration, 25th anniversary, palms theater, casino, Las Vegas, Super Bowl
by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

February 13, 2024

Super Bowl Soulful Celebration Hosts 25th Anniversary Show

The 25th anniversary of the Super Bowl Soulful Celebration brought together legendary musical acts and esteemed football players to celebrate their faith and their love of the sport.

Super Bowl weekend in Las Vegas would be incomplete without its Soulful Celebration. For its 25th anniversary, Cedric the Entertainer and Tichina Arnold hosted the star-studded musical event on Feb. 7 that celebrated faith, football, and community.

Taking place at the Pearl Concert Theater within the Palms Resort and Casino, the Super Bowl Soulful Celebration reached new heights to commemorate its first quarter of existence. Its performance lineup not only included the likes of legendary acts such as Earth, Wind & Fire, Kirk Franklin, and T-Pain, but also featured Southern University’s drumline band known as The Human Jukebox.

Paying homage to Black History Month through a blend of gospel and Black secular music acts, the Soulful Celebration is an annual showcase of Black talent ahead of football’s biggest night. Originally called the Super Bowl Gospel Celebration, it remains the only multicultural program sanctioned by the NFL during championship weekend. While it remains true to its roots as a faith-based event, it has evolved into uplift through all genres by Black artists.

For this year’s theme of “Just Believe,” the event’s honorees were multiple NFL players whose mission and stories have uplifted their cultural and local communities. HBCU alumni Markquese Bell and Damar Hamlin were highlighted for their achievement and determination in the sport, while CJ Stroud accepted the coveted Faith in Action award. In his speech, he emphasized how his faith in God drives him to strive for excellence and be an inspiration to the next generation of spiritual athletes.

Gayle King helped present fellow television host and former NFL player Nate Burleson with the Lifetime of Inspiration award, as all in attendance took part in celebrating these men of faith and football as they showcased their love and passion for motivating others through the sport. To catch up on the performances and heartfelt speeches from memorable event, the Super Bowl Soulful Celebration is available to stream now on CBS.com and Paramount+.

RELATED CONTENT: Beyoncé Steals Super Bowl With New Album Announcement And New Music

office romance, Valentine's Day, return to office
by Jeffrey McKinney

February 13, 2024

Love Is In The Office Air: With Valentine’s Day Upon Us, Black American Workers Are Being Struck By Cupid’s Arrow

Some 41 of 200 of those workers quizzed have embraced romantic relationships since returning to the office.

Cupid’s arrow is hitting its target with Black Americans on the job as Valentine’s Day approaches.

Some 41 of 200 of those workers quizzed have embraced romantic relationships since returning to the office (RTO), based on data provided to BLACK ENTERPRISE. Office love has been reported as something that can bring pros and cons, with a cautious approach often recommended to partakers.

It seems Valentine’s Day is every day at some jobs. A robust 95% of Blacks who have entered romantic relationships since returning to the office are now involved with a coworker. Around 46% stated it had a positive impact on their work, while 12% report the opposite. Some 54% choose not to disclose their relationship matters. All told, ResumeBuilder.com surveyed nearly 1,450 workers aged 18 to 44 at companies that have applied to an RTO policy and mandated employees work there at least once a week. 

Other findings for Black workers revealed that 14 out of the 41 report the relationship involved a subordinate, while 21 of 41 say a superior. Some seven out 41 report the relationship got them a raise or promotion.

The work-romance analysis comes as Americans overall are expected to spend a record-breaking $14.2 billion this year on Valentine’s Day, including $2.6 billion on flowers, the National Retail Federation reported. Consumers are anticipated to shell out almost $186 per person on average.

The survey unveiled that the type of those the relationships were broad. They included dating (38%), serious (28%), marriage (17%), very casual (9%), and engaged (7%). 

Resume Builder’s Resume and Career Strategist Julia Toothacres offered her take on the topic in a news release.

“While in-office romance has always been around, it’s important to understand the implications of these relationships. There is a power dynamic when it’s a boss/subordinate relationship, which can lead to things like favoritism or getting let go if the relationship ends.”

She added, “I encourage people to check their employee handbook for policies around dating co-workers. Some places don’t allow it, and others require you to acknowledge the relationship.”

Overall, those  who stated there is or was a positive impact chalk that up to being more excited to go to work (82%), improving mental health (66%), or the relationship helping them get a raise or promotion (45%).

For those who disclosed a negative impact, they say it mainly stemmed from being stressful to go to work (62%), distraction (58%), and worsening mental health (35%). Some 54% did not disclose a relationship to human resources.

RELATED CONTENT: 5 Top Industries Where Office Romance Is Most Likely to Blossom

 

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