In this insightful episode, Brandi Oldham tackles the uncomfortable truth about traditional networking events - those rooms full of strangers where everyone's holding drinks they don't want while making painful small talk. As a Clifton Strengths Certified coach, Brandi explains why meaningful connections happen in one-on-one settings rather than crowded networking events, and why that's perfectly okay. Learn about her personal strengths profile (Strategic, Futuristic, Individualization, Relater, and Communication) and why despite having social skills, she "loathes" traditional networking mixers. Discover her practical five-step model for authentic networking conversations that lead to deeper connections, better career insights, and genuine relationships. Whether you're an introvert who dreads networking or simply someone looking to make more meaningful professional connections, this episode offers a refreshing approach that lets you network in ways that align with your authentic self.Careers Unchecked is a podcast for professionals seeking authentic career development and networking strategies that honor who they truly are. Host Brandi Oldham brings her expertise as a Clifton Strengths Certified coach to help listeners navigate professional growth in ways that feel natural and meaningful. Each episode combines Brandi's insights from her coaching practice with practical advice you can implement immediately. Whether you're struggling with traditional networking approaches, seeking to better understand your own strengths, or looking to build genuine professional relationships, Careers Unchecked offers the guidance, validation, and action steps to help you create connections that actually matter.Why traditional networking events often feel inauthentic and uncomfortableIntroduction to Clifton Strengths and how understanding your strengths shapes your networking approachWhy one-on-one coffee meetings create deeper connections than large networking eventsHow to leverage your existing network (it's bigger than you think!)Brandi's five-step conversation model: past, present, future, plus two bonus questionsThe importance of asking about industry outlook before pursuing career changesHow to follow up authentically after networking conversationsPermission to network in ways that feel true to your personalitySign up for updates: https://www.talentcareercoaching.com/Meet our coaches: https://www.talentcareercoaching.com/meet-the-teamWatch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TalentCareerCoachingFind us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/74164254/admin/dashboard/Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talentcareercoachingFind us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talentcareercoaching

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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