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Join us on Jun 27th as Desiré Greene shares her go-to tips for quickly designing PowerPoint content with high visual appeal. No advanced skills required. Registration: https://lnkd.in/e8Rp4ufU

Mellody Hobson is a business icon as ubiquitous as Steve Jobs, Jeff Bezos, and Jamie Dimon. As co-CEO of Ariel Investments, she oversees about $14 billion in assets for the first African American-owned investment firm in the US. Hobson has held positions on the boards of several major companies, including Starbucks, JPMorganChase, and The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. Perhaps most impressive is her resolve to wield her power for good. Recognized by TIME, ESSENCE, Forbes and Black Enterprise Magazine as one of the most influential people on earth, Hobson consistently uses her influence to chip away at the "isms" she encountered on her climb. Her commitment to philanthropy and increased board diversity is demonstrated through measurable results. In my most recent leadership profile for Essence Communications Inc., the iconic businesswoman discussed how her formative years and her mother's influence shaped her pragmatic approach and why she believes adversity, properly channeled, offers a sharp competitive edge.

As we put together Lean In's first State of Latinas in Corporate America report (https://lnkd.in/g2XNe3VJ), a dismal data point stood out: Only 3 Latinas have been CEO of a Fortune 500 company. Ever. After learning this, I just had to interview the first. So I reached out to Geisha Williams, the former CEO of Pacific Gas and Electric Company on LinkedIn. After sharing with her the key findings of our report, she shared with me the fascinating story of her climb up the corporate ladder and her thoughts on how to address the workplace obstacles Latinas continue to face. "I felt a certain responsibility to tell the story and to be visible. To be that woman to inspire other Latin women across the organization, or across the country, to say, 'She could do it. Why not me?'" she said. Read more excerpts from our extended conversation here:

The fight for equal pay is far from over. Despite the Equal Pay Act of 1963, women continue to earn less than men for equal work. Why the gap persists? ⭐ Workplace bias: Women are often undervalued and passed over for promotions. ⭐ Occupational segregation: Women tend to be concentrated in lower-paying jobs. ⭐ Lack of support for caregivers: Caregiving responsibilities often fall on women, forcing them to leave the workforce or take lower-paying jobs. What can we do? ⭐ Advocate for pay transparency laws. ⭐ Support policies that help caregivers, like affordable childcare. ⭐ Negotiate your salary confidently! #genderequality #womenofcolor #earlycareers #diversityandinclusion #humanresources #DEI #DiversityandInclusion

We all deserve to thrive in the workplace. But sometimes, navigating workplace dynamics and advocating for ourselves can be tricky. Lauren Wesley Wilson, founder and CEO of ColorComm, discusses her book "What Do You Need?", which offers guidance for Black women on navigating these challenges. Key takeaways: ⭐ Self-awareness is key! Regularly ask yourself "What do you need?" to identify your goals and priorities. ⭐ Build strong relationships! Getting to know colleagues outside of work can foster a strong support network. What can we do? ⭐ Don't be afraid to ask for what you deserve. ⭐ Invest in building genuine connections with colleagues. Remember: You are worthy and capable. By advocating for yourself and building strong relationships, you can create a fulfilling career path. #genderequality #womenofcolor #earlycareers #diversityandinclusion #humanresources #DEI #DiversityandInclusion #ProfessionalDevelopment

As a young professional woman, developing strong PowerPoint skills can truly set you on the path to success. Presentation skills are a pivotal component of career growth, and the ability to effectively communicate your ideas through a visually compelling medium can be a game-changer. PowerPoint is a versatile tool that allows you to create impactful presentations that leave a lasting impression. Here's how mastering PowerPoint can benefit you as a young professional: ⭐ Stand out in meetings and presentations: A well-crafted PowerPoint presentation can help you showcase your ideas with confidence and professionalism. ⭐ Enhance your personal brand: Creating visually appealing slides can help you establish a strong personal brand and make a memorable impact in any professional setting. ⭐ Elevate your influence: When you can captivate your audience with engaging visuals and compelling content, you enhance your ability to influence and persuade others. By honing your PowerPoint skills, you'll not only boost your professional credibility but also gain the confidence to take on new challenges and opportunities. So, whether you're presenting a project proposal, sharing insights with your team, or delivering a keynote at a conference, your proficiency in PowerPoint will set you apart. Invest in mastering PowerPoint with our free webinar on June 27th. Register: https://lnkd.in/eDyVxyAG #womenofcolor #earlycareers #ProfessionalDevelopment #Empowerment #CareerGrowth

As we wrap up graduation season, it's essential to recognize the unique challenges that women of color may face as they enter the workforce. ⭐ Staying true to your values and identity is paramount. ⭐ Embrace what defines you as strengths and advocate for yourself, both in small and significant ways. This will lay the foundation for standing up in larger situations as you advance in your career. #genderequality #womenofcolor #earlycareers #diversityandinclusion #humanresources #DEI #DiversityandInclusion #ProfessionalDevelopment

Let's give a round of applause to these 80 companies for their incredible efforts in creating inclusive workplaces! 👏🏽 👏🏽 👏🏽 While there's more work to be done in enhancing representation, it's important to recognize and celebrate the strides being made.

Is DEI authentic? Essence CEO Caroline Wanga argues that true DEI goes beyond quotas and metrics. It's about creating a workplace where you can be your authentic self and be celebrated for it. Key takeaways: ⭐ Suppressing your individuality can hinder your success. ⭐ Companies that embrace authenticity benefit from a wider range of perspectives and a more humane work environment. What can we do? ⭐ Don't be afraid to bring your unique voice and background to the table. ⭐ Seek out workplaces that value authenticity and celebrate their employees' individuality. And for Employers: ⭐ Move beyond performative DEI and focus on creating a culture of inclusion where all employees feel comfortable being themselves. #genderequality #womenofcolor #earlycareers #diversityandinclusion #humanresources #DEI #DiversityandInclusion #ProfessionalDevelopment

If you're feeling stuck and unsure how to break through the glass ceiling? You're not alone. Nancy Reyes, CEO of the Americas for BBDO, dives into the reasons why so many talented women leave the workforce before reaching leadership positions. Key takeaways: ⭐ Lack of confidence and mentorship can hold women back. ⭐ Women of color often face additional challenges due to bias. What can we do? ⭐ Believe in yourself and your abilities! Deserve your seat at the table. ⭐ Seek out mentors and sponsors who can champion your voice. Together, we can create a more supportive environment for women to thrive at all levels. #genderequality #womenofcolor #earlycareers #diversityandinclusion #humanresources #DEI #DiversityandInclusion #ProfessionalDevelopment