Young Black Professional Guide

The Covenant with Black America by Tavis Smiley

This collection of essays is both a plea and a response to the self-assessed critical circumstances of black America today. Tavis Smiley provides the introduction, touching on the issues he explores as host and interviewer on public television and radio; Cornel West and Haki Madhubuti also provide commentary, tying together the common theme of planning how to address the circumstances faced by black Americans. I enjoy this book because it is a reference for Black communites to use for years to come. Instead of merely pointing out what the problems are, the scholars offer solutions for community leaders, politicians, and parents to implement in order to improve Black America. Here is info on the State of the Black Union 2007 hosted by Tavis Smiley.

Lies at the Alter: The Truth About Great Marriages by Dr. Robin L. Smith

Psychologist and national television personality Dr. Robin Smith pulls no punches and minces no words in her heartfelt caution against the danger in believing “that you don’t need what you do need.” Truth is the theme here, and Smith guides listeners in how to recognize it, speak it and make it a part of the marriage. Although targeted to women who suppress themselves in order to be in a relationship, men are not left out. A must for anyone considering marriage one day, and even for those already married. The examples and exercises are great; second only to face-to-face couples counseling. Many of the tips in the post “Effective Communication” were inspired by this book.

Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki

Personal-finance author and lecturer Robert Kiyosaki developed his unique economic perspective through exposure to a pair of disparate influences: his own highly educated but fiscally unstable father, and the multimillionaire eighth-grade dropout father of his closest friend. The lifelong monetary problems experienced by his “poor dad” (whose weekly paychecks, while respectable, were never quite sufficient to meet family needs) pounded home the counterpoint communicated by his “rich dad” (that “the poor and the middle class work for money,” but “the rich have money work for them”). Taking that message to heart, Kiyosaki was able to retire at 47. This book is especially relevant for young Black professionals to help guide us down the path of financial success. See our previous posts on “Seven Steps to Riches,” “Are Black Dollars Making No Sense” and “Black Wealth.”

Girl, Get Your Money Straight by Glinda Bridgforth

Using a variety of self-help techniques, journalist and “financial recovery specialist” Bridgforth has designed a “holistic” program for people who find personal finance stressful. While explicitly addressed to black women, this book would be useful to anyone comfortable with feel-good, recovery program lingo and practices, although those looking for detailed explanations of how stocks and mutual funds work should look elsewhere. Another great financial resource for female YBPs is Woman & Money by Suze Orman.

The Money Book for the Young, Fabulous & Broke by Suze Orman

Yet another great financial resource, this time for those of us living a champagne life on a beer wallet. his user-friendly guide offers a clear introduction to practical investing and money management techniques that can turn even a dismal financial situation around. Bestselling author Suze Orman has a knack for taking the fear out of money matters, and in this book she shows readers how to set priorities and achieve goals, whether it is to buy a house or save for retirement or pay for a child’s education. She also offers inspiration to readers to face their financial problems and get started on a solution. If this book is calling your name, then also be sure to check out our posts on “Budeting on an Irregular Income” and “Slaying the Debt Dragon.”

Embracing the Real World: The Black Woman’s Guide to Life After College by Chaz Kyser

This book is interesting, well written, and packed with practical information for anyone entering the job market. It is the first career guide created specifically for black women making the often challenging transition from college to the workforce. Each year more than 80,000 black women leave their alma maters and take their talent, ambition and energy into the real world.See our post “Black Women Navigate Ladder to the Top” which talks about Kyser’s book, the competitive corporate worl, and how young black professional women are securing management positions.

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