Pay transparency among peers has helped many people to better negotiate their salaries.

Love is a powerful tool. Regardless of one’s perspective, the term and concept are pervasive in culture and real life. Whether it is Tina Turner asking, “What’s Love Got To Do With It” or Musiq Soulchild giving the world a neo-soul infused definition in his 2000 ballad “Love,” there is no escaping the impact the emotion has on people. This concept has even deeper roots if you surround its context with a good coming-of-age story. One consistent version of this story is the power of support and belief from a person or group who loved and believed in someone so much that the individual was able to positively evolve from where they were to where they were destined to be. And at the center of culture, specifically in a faith context, America’s Bishop, T.D. Jakes has an out-loud coming-of-age story. It started from pulpit, progressed across several business industries, and has rested in the love and support of his community. Born in South Charleston, WV, Thomas Dexter “T.D.” Jakes is...

When navigating an industry known for lowballing women, especially Black women, it is important to stand firm on your worth.

Are you underpaid compared to your peers? Have you taken on more responsibilities at work without a salary increase? You probably need to advocate for a raise — a task most people find daunting, especially the first time. But you can do it, given the right strategy, proper preparation, and a little confidence. Determine the Right Strategy The first step is to determine what strategy will be the most effective. Who has decision-making authority over your possible salary increase? It may be your immediate supervisor. Depending on your company’s process and your supervisor’s personality, a direct, fact-based appeal may be the most successful approach. But the decision-maker might be two levels above that person, or there may be multiple decision-makers. Some may be persuaded by logic. To appeal to others, you may need to pander a bit. Do Your Research Being able to prove you are underpaid relative to your peers can strengthen your argument for a raise. Find salary data for comparable...