Latonya Howell - Essential HR Practices in the Modern Workplace
05/13/25 • 35 min
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"Nobody's coming on a white horse," says LaTonya Howell, HR executive and founder of Coach Her Life Consulting, in this eye-opening conversation about the realities women face in today's workplace. Drawing from her 16+ years of human resources experience and personal journey from foster care to executive leadership, LaTonya offers practical wisdom that cuts through corporate jargon to address real challenges.
The workplace is evolving rapidly, with artificial intelligence transforming everything from hiring practices to skill development. While AI creates exciting opportunities, LaTonya cautions about potential biases: "Generative AI is only as good as the information you feed into it." This technological revolution is driving a shift from degree-based to skills-based hiring, opening doors for workers to develop capabilities that traditional education might not provide.
When it comes to the persistent gender pay gap, LaTonya's insights are particularly valuable. "Women do not typically negotiate their pay, whereas men will come in and negotiate everything," she observes, noting she's even seen men negotiate severance packages while signing offer letters. Her practical advice? Maintain a detailed list of accomplishments with measurable metrics to support your case for raises and promotions. Beyond just salary, she encourages women to negotiate for professional development opportunities as part of their total compensation package.
Perhaps most compelling is LaTonya's perspective on psychological safety in the workplace. The outdated notion that employees should "leave personal life at home" has given way to understanding that people bring their whole selves to work. Creating environments where employees feel safe discussing real challenges requires leaders who remain personable and connected with their teams.
For those navigating career transitions in today's uncertain economy, her message balances realism with hope: be strategic in job applications while remaining flexible enough to consider temporary positions. Most importantly, remember your value doesn't diminish during periods of unemployment.
LaTonya closes with a powerful call to action for women: get involved, whatever that looks like. Though progress may seem slow, every contribution matters. "You are the change you're waiting for," she reminds us – a perfect encapsulation of the leadership mindset this podcast champions.
Whether you're leading a team, building your career, or simply seeking to understand workplace dynamics better, this conversation offers practical wisdom for navigating today's complex professional landscape.
https://www.amazon.com/Trauma-Was-Necessary-My-Story/dp/B0BN6V7LZ8
https://www.utahbusiness.com/awards-and-rankings/2024/09/18/latonya-howell-2024-living-color
www.wliut.com
@utwomenleaders
Comments or Thoughts on this Episode? Send us a text message.
"Nobody's coming on a white horse," says LaTonya Howell, HR executive and founder of Coach Her Life Consulting, in this eye-opening conversation about the realities women face in today's workplace. Drawing from her 16+ years of human resources experience and personal journey from foster care to executive leadership, LaTonya offers practical wisdom that cuts through corporate jargon to address real challenges.
The workplace is evolving rapidly, with artificial intelligence transforming everything from hiring practices to skill development. While AI creates exciting opportunities, LaTonya cautions about potential biases: "Generative AI is only as good as the information you feed into it." This technological revolution is driving a shift from degree-based to skills-based hiring, opening doors for workers to develop capabilities that traditional education might not provide.
When it comes to the persistent gender pay gap, LaTonya's insights are particularly valuable. "Women do not typically negotiate their pay, whereas men will come in and negotiate everything," she observes, noting she's even seen men negotiate severance packages while signing offer letters. Her practical advice? Maintain a detailed list of accomplishments with measurable metrics to support your case for raises and promotions. Beyond just salary, she encourages women to negotiate for professional development opportunities as part of their total compensation package.
Perhaps most compelling is LaTonya's perspective on psychological safety in the workplace. The outdated notion that employees should "leave personal life at home" has given way to understanding that people bring their whole selves to work. Creating environments where employees feel safe discussing real challenges requires leaders who remain personable and connected with their teams.
For those navigating career transitions in today's uncertain economy, her message balances realism with hope: be strategic in job applications while remaining flexible enough to consider temporary positions. Most importantly, remember your value doesn't diminish during periods of unemployment.
LaTonya closes with a powerful call to action for women: get involved, whatever that looks like. Though progress may seem slow, every contribution matters. "You are the change you're waiting for," she reminds us – a perfect encapsulation of the leadership mindset this podcast champions.
Whether you're leading a team, building your career, or simply seeking to understand workplace dynamics better, this conversation offers practical wisdom for navigating today's complex professional landscape.
https://www.amazon.com/Trauma-Was-Necessary-My-Story/dp/B0BN6V7LZ8
https://www.utahbusiness.com/awards-and-rankings/2024/09/18/latonya-howell-2024-living-color
www.wliut.com
@utwomenleaders
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www.wliut.com
@utwomenleaders
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www.wliut.com
@utwomenleaders
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