Nicol Smith

August is National Black Business Month, and we recognize the Black-owned businesses nationwide. Black business owners account for about 10 percent of U.S. businesses and 30 percent of all minority-owned businesses. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, that amounts to approximately two million companies owned by African Americans. Nearly 40 percent of black-owned businesses are in health care, social assistance, repair and maintenance, and personal and laundry services. Other categories include advertising firms, auto dealerships, consulting services, restaurants, barbershops, beauty salons, and more. HOW TO OBSERVE Support and encourage African American-owned businesses in your community. Learn more about business opportunities for the African American community. Use #NationalBlackBusinessMonth in social media correspondence. #Sharingiscaring

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My first session attended today was on Black school leader pipelines. It was so insightful, practical, and full of resources to start taking action steps! 🙌🏿 #nabse #teamDPS #BlackSchoolLeaders #POCleadersK12

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This is your friendly reminder that your outdated "no politics" policy does nothing to soothe troubled waters. This is not a typical election season & many employees, for good reason, are anxious, burnt out & fearful. Conscious leaders acknowledge the impact with compassion & give grace & space in turbulent times. Show up & be conscious today. #consciousleadership #DoBetter #FractionalWork #Recruitment #HRCI

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I'll be blunt. As a black woman in HR, I am not surprised by SHRM's decision to drop equity from their DEI initiatives and focus. I sat for my SHRM exam in 2022 and paid for the exam myself. SHRM provided no financial assistance for low income HR professionals to further their careers and made candidates jump through hoops to get any sort of accommodation for the exam. In order to maintain your SHRM credential, you need to obtain 60 credits within the 3 years of your certification expiration date. These credits can only be obtained by attending conferences ($$$$), seminars/workshops ($$), hours and hours of extracurriculars, or furthering your education through course work and/or going back to school ($$$$$$$). These actions are NOT equitable by any means and make it nearly impossible for those who are marginalized, to keep their certifications. Not to mention, you have to pay roughly $300 a year to keep your access to their resources. As if the $1600 to sit for the exam was not enough. SHRM is nothing but another big corporation who pandered to the wave of popularity surrounding DEI following the 2020 George Floyd protests. They have always lacked diversity in their members, their leadership, and have never proven to be inclusive or equitable in any of their external practices. I will not be renewing my SHRM membership and will let my credential expire come 2025. I thought that obtaining this credential was imperative to my success and growth as an HR professional but as we can see by the current state of the job market...that isn't the case. Dropping equity was only the first step. I can definitely see them rolling back much more down the road.

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Team Exhale surveyed 1005 Black Women nationwide and 36% of them say they have left a job due to feeling unsafe. These unsafe workplace cultures are harming Black Women everyday! We hope Exhale can be a supportive resource for you in your mental and emotional wellbeing journey. Download today to join the largest movement to prioritize Black Women’s wellbeing.✨ link in bio #blackwomen #workculture #workplace #culture #wellbeing #workplaceculture

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Historically, societal expectations have often discouraged men from expressing vulnerability or seeking help for mental health issues. Men face unique challenges and pressures, from work and family responsibilities to societal expectations of strength and stoicism. It's important to remember that seeking help and expressing emotions are not signs of weakness but of strength and wisdom. Acknowledging mental health struggles and taking steps to address them are vital parts of overall well-being. Where can we start? - Open Up: Encourage the men in your life to talk about their feelings and experiences. Create a safe space for open and honest conversations. - Support Systems: Promote the importance of seeking help, whether through professional counseling, support groups, or trusted friends and family. - Practical Steps: Share resources and practical steps for managing mental health, such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, sufficient sleep, and time for relaxation and hobbies. Men's Mental Health Month is a reminder that mental health is crucial for everyone. By fostering a supportive environment and encouraging open discussions, we can help men feel empowered to take care of their mental well-being. Let’s commit to supporting one another, offering compassion and understanding as we walk this journey together. #msmentormecareercoach #MensMentalHealthMonth #MentalHealthAwareness #SupportEachOther #BreakTheStigma #GodCares #FaithAndWellness #CommunitySupport #MentalWellbeing #OpenConversations #EmotionalStrength #CastYourAnxiety #SupportingMen #HealthyMinds #FaithAndHealing #StrongerTogether

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🌟 Take Risks & Build Bridges 🌟 In the spirit of growth and connection, send that risky text, connect with the Executives of your dream company, and invite a stranger to coffee. Because who knows what incredible opportunities lie on the other side of those invitations? I believe in the importance of creating visibility for those who may not have the same access or opportunities. After all, humans need humans, and it's up to those with a platform to lift others up and create pathways for success. Build bridges, extend hands, and open doors for each other. Together, we can create a stronger, more inclusive network where everyone has the chance to thrive. #Networking #BuildingBridges #CreatingOpportunities #Gratitude #Inclusivity

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💼 When it comes to Employee Relations, knowledge alone isn't enough—you need to master application. 🚀 This state-of-the-art bootcamp will give you the power to transform your career and elevate your skills. 🔥 Empower yourself, grow your career—you need this! 🌐 Learn more and register at https://lnkd.in/eVh7yzpe #EmployeeRelations #CareerGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment #Leadership #fyp #worklife #careerupgrade #buddyinHR #HRleadership #Certification #Minorityleaders #Leadingwithpurpose #CareerShift

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Members, check your emails for this month's newsletter! Not a member? Join NJABA today and have the latest updates sent directly to your inbox monthly. You'll receive updates about government affairs, service delivery options for the month, university updates, and all job postings! Everything you need to know about ABA in NJ? We've got you!! To join visit our website: https://lnkd.in/gPMB6Ac, or email us at [email protected] #NJABA #behavioranalysis #appliedbehavioranalysis #BCBA #BCaBA #RBT #NJABAMembership #FreeMembership #StudentMembership #BTMembership #NJABAnewsletter #NJABAUpdates #ABAnews #ABAupdates

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ERG Leaders & HR Directors, Are your company Juneteenth plans set? What if I told you I could take care of your programming + offer you continuous support for your Black employees over the next year, for one low price, and it could be completely done for you- TODAY?! This is not a dream... or a test... The Black Girl Doctor is hosting a virtual Cookout this month for Juneteenth and I'd love to get your organization registered. This event is offered exclusively through our 'Year-Long Black Mental Health Event Series Membership' which is designed to provide continuous wellness support to your community by connecting Black Psychologists with your organization for a minimum of four engagements throughout the year. Click below for all the details, but in summary, when you sign up for The Cookout, you'll get access to that event for your entire organization PLUS access to our next 3 events at no additional cost (we host an event each quarter). This is our way of helping you take your engagement strategy from reactive to proactive. From the moment you join, you'll feel relief because instead of scrambling to figure out what to do each time the headlines are splashed with news of Black pain, you'll know that it's already taken care of because your membership guarantees that the next community gathering is always just a few weeks away. The Cookout: Sunday June 23rd (2 hour event) Featuring: Shelly-Ann Collins Rawle, PhD Dominique Blanchette, Ph.D. Jillian Lynum, Psy.D. Amy R. Beck, PhD, and ME! Details: We’re grillin up lessons to nourish your soul. It's BYO food and drink, and we're bringing: 👉🏾 Ted Talk Style Soul Lessons 👉🏾 Raffle Prizes 👉🏾 Hip Hop Mindfulness 👉🏾 Mental Health Checkup 👉🏾 Libation Moment 👉🏾 Black Psychologists 👉🏾 Music & Vibes 👉🏾 Speed Friendship Connections Register your company here https://lnkd.in/gP4Bmf_F DEADLINE: Registration closes 6/17/24. If you miss the deadline you'll be placed on our waiting list for our next event. Tag a company that needs this! #Juneteenth #BlackMentalHealth #EmployeeWellness #ERG #HR #ergleaders #hrdirectors #workplacewellness

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It matters who likes you! I heard this phrase for the first time from one of Apostle Selman’s teachings and it stuck with me since then. Imoleayo Ashogbon, MBA, CCMP, GPHR, SHRM-SCP, CPHR would always say that “people love to work with the people that they like” A study published in the Harvard Business Review also alludes to the fact that “employees who are well-liked are more likely to receive support and cooperation from their colleagues, leading to increased productivity and job satisfaction.” As professionals, we often prioritize competence and expertise, which are essential and non-negotiable. However, based on the above premise, we can infer that beneath the surface of “competence and expertise “ lies a powerful yet often underestimated force known as like-ability! It is the ability to connect with people on a personal level, the courage to inspire trust, and to build genuine relationships which can significantly influence one's success in the workplace. Likeability is not just about being popular or charismatic; it is a blend of qualities such as empathy, approachability, trust and authenticity. When colleagues genuinely like and enjoy working with someone, collaboration becomes more seamless, communication flows more smoothly, and conflicts are often resolved more amicably. In a team setting, individuals who are perceived as likeable are more likely to garner support for their ideas, rally others around common goals, and get results faster. They tend to be natural leaders, not because of their authority or title, but because of their ability to inspire and motivate others through their positive attitude and approachable aura. Employees who are well-liked are often viewed more favorably by managers and peers alike, leading to greater opportunities for mentorship, promotion, and recognition. During interviews , candidates who are well liked by the interviewers based on the fact that they possess some of these endearing qualities are more likely to be selected. However, it is pertinent to mention that likeability is not a one-size-fits-all, or copy and paste trait. What resonates with one person may not necessarily resonate with another. Authenticity is key; trying to be someone you're not in an attempt to be liked will only backfire. Instead, focus on being genuine, empathetic, and attentive to the needs and perspectives of others. In conclusion, while competence and expertise are undoubtedly important in the workplace, the power of likeability should not be underestimated and it can be built. Cheers to a week of wins! #Authenticity #Trust #PromotingPositiveWorkCultures #WorkPlaceTips #LinkedIn

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As we gather to celebrate Juneteenth, we are reminded of its profound significance in American history. Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and is not just a day of reflection but also a powerful symbol of freedom, resilience, and the ongoing struggle for equality. The inclusion of Juneteenth in our company’s calendar is a testament to our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Recognizing and honoring such a pivotal moment demonstrates our dedication to fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and respected. As we commemorate Juneteenth, let us take this opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations, educate ourselves and others, and reinforce our commitment to equality and justice. Together, we can build a more inclusive future where the ideals of freedom and equality are realized for all. #The Institute of Internal Auditors Celebrate Juneteenth.

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Opportunity October 2024 REMINDER: Week 2: 1. Write down Scripture pertaining to increasing faith. Faith and complacency cannot coexist. Meditate of this Scripture so it will ignite positive thoughts and feelings. 2. Continue reading your book of choice and ensure you dedicate time throughout the week to read a few chapters. 3. After revisiting a goal last week, even if you have not started yet, write it down, keep it visible, and start over. Remember, you are gifted and equipped. #WecandoallthingsthroughChristWhostrengthensus #OpportunityOctober2024 #BeginAgain #MindsetShift

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Happy National Disability Employment Awareness Month! Let’s recognize the value and contributions of workers with developmental disabilities. Building inclusive workplaces isn’t just the right thing to do—it makes companies stronger. Let’s continue advocating for equal opportunities for all. #NDEAM #InclusionMatters #DisabilityEmployment #DiversityandInclusion #WorkplaceEquity

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Happy National Disability Employment Awareness Month! Let’s recognize the value and contributions of workers with developmental disabilities. Building inclusive workplaces isn’t just the right thing to do—it makes companies stronger. Let’s continue advocating for equal opportunities for all. #NDEAM #InclusionMatters #DisabilityEmployment #DiversityandInclusion #WorkplaceEquity

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Today I had the honor of being on a panel entitled - Embracing Culture: The Strength and the Challenge at the SHRM #ExecNetwork experience at the #SHRM24 Conference. My fellow panelists were: John Ferguson, SHRM-CP, PHR of NASCAR DeRetta Cole Rhodes, PhD of Atlanta Braves Beth Goldstein served as our amazing moderator! As the Global Head of Belonging, I recognize that culture is the bedrock of our identity—it influences every facet of our organization. Yet, the journey through cultural landscapes is not without its complexities. In our session, we will confronted the "culture paradox," examining its influence on leadership, collaboration, and personal growth. We explored strategies for enhancing employee engagement, refining team dynamics, and fostering a culture that is both positive and inclusive. Participants hopefully departed with a strategic blueprint to harness the distinctive power of our organization's culture. If you were in our session please comment below on your own takeaways! #Belonging = #Inclusion * (#Diversity + #Equity) ^ #Accessibility

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About 80% of Black leaders who seek out my coaching services and aspire to become more effective and impactful leaders lack employer support. Often, they are even fearful of asking their employer for this investment. Instead, they fund it out of their own pockets. ❗Keep in mind, Black women earn 58.5% less than White men (Catalyst, 2022 via Canadian Women’s Foundation), making it challenging to invest in themselves. From my experience, these are the three common scenarios Black women face regarding coaching: 1. Unaware of Available Coaching Opportunities: Many Black employees do not know if coaching is part of their organization's talent management strategy. If they are unaware, it effectively means it isn’t accessible to them. 2. Denied Requests for Development: When Black employees ask for development opportunities, the answer is often no, or the process for approval requires a business case rationalizing the request. Excuses range from budget constraints to doubts about their potential or impact. This reflects outdated and biased talent review practices. 3. Hesitation to Advocate for Themselves: Many Black employees, even those in senior roles, feel hesitant to ask for investment in their development. This hesitation stems from a lack of normalized support and the internalized belief, based on lived experience, that they are not worthy of such investment. Although I’ve developed a self-advocacy guide to help them request these investments, it shouldn't be necessary. I’ve yet to encounter this issue with non-Black employees whose organizations contract my services. Employers, sponsors, and allies need to recognize that investing in Black women’s development through coaching is crucial. This investment should place them in environments where they feel safe, understood, and are given the space to thrive. Are you willing to break the barriers and invest in the growth and development of your Black employees? #LeadershipDevelopment #EquityInclusion #BlackWomenLead #BrilliantColours #blackexcellence #womenofcolor #allyship

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Ensuring your organization has a strong pipeline of talent tomorrow means you need to invest in people today. This CUSTOM CREATED experience is one-of-a-kind. It layers 1:1 executive coaching, group coaching and interactive group learning sessions. This approach ensures that insights are not only gained, but incorporated into real-life practices and habits. Please listen to this quick interview to understand more about this very unique opportunity that is kicking off soon!

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Day 31 Continue the Conversation! ✊🏾 The Journey Continues Beyond Black History Month Black History Month may be ending, but our commitment to equity and justice doesn't. This month has been a journey of reflection, education, and inspiration. We've celebrated the triumphs and acknowledged the struggles of Black people throughout history and in the present. But the fight for true equality is far from over. Systemic racism and discrimination persist, and it's up to each of us to actively challenge and dismantle these barriers. What will you do to continue the work? Educate yourself: Read books, watch documentaries, and listen to podcasts by Black creators and thought leaders. Support Black-owned businesses: Make a conscious effort to patronize Black-owned businesses in your community. Amplify Black voices: Share the work of Black artists, writers, and activists on social media and in your conversations. Challenge racism: Speak up when you witness discrimination or prejudice. Advocate for change: Support policies and initiatives that promote racial justice. How will you show up for the Black Colleagues and community? Be an ally: Listen to Black voices and perspectives with empathy and understanding. Be a mentor: Offer your time and resources to support young Black people in their education and careers. Be an advocate: Use your privilege to speak out against injustice and inequality. What further help do you need from me? I'm here to provide resources, support, and guidance as we continue this journey together. Let me know what information or assistance you need to be a more effective ally. Remember, we need you! Every voice, every action, every commitment makes a difference. Let's continue to build a more just and equitable world for all. #AllyshipContinues #BlackHistoryMonth LIKE | COMMENT| SHARE

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