Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connection SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🎤 Contact: [email protected] https://www.cassthompson.com/speaker Start posting on LinkedIn with our FREE list of 20 Things to Post on LinkedIn: https://www.cassthompson.com/linkedin20 In this episode of the Creating Opportunities Podcast, Cassandra Thompson discusses the significance of small gestures in building and maintaining professional relationships, specifically focusing on remembering and acknowledging birthdays. Drawing from personal experiences and insights from Amy Poehler's podcast, Cassandra emphasizes the importance of making people feel seen and included through simple acts like saying 'Happy Birthday.' She provides practical tips for improving your birthday game, including using calendars, blocking time, and personalizing messages. Tune in to learn why these small efforts can make a big difference in your career and personal connections. 00:00 The Forgotten Birthday Banner 01:18 The Importance of Small Gestures 02:13 Welcome to Creating Opportunities 02:33 The Power of Remembering Birthdays 03:28 Learning from Jack McBrayer 05:09 Reviving the Birthday Tradition 09:18 Practical Tips for Remembering Birthdays 12:56 Conclusion and Next Week's Topic SHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendation SHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8 If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradvice SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️ Contact: [email protected] https://www.cassthompson.com/speaker INFO 🌟 Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsulting ABOUT This isn’t your grandpa’s networking. What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships? What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you? At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships. When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot! DISCLOSURE 🌟 Thank you for trusting me with my honest and reliable opinion on any future purchase you may make. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information when it is the case. As a part of our community, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. This doesn't affect you in any way in the checkout process unless I've been able to arrange a discount for you that is special from other customers. Thank you for supporting this channel!

Learn ALL the Strategies to feel great at networking events with the Confidently Connect workshop. Learn more here: https://www.cassthompson.com/connectworkshop Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connection Start posting on LinkedIn with our FREE list of 20 Things to Post on LinkedIn: https://www.cassthompson.com/linkedin20 In this episode of Creating Opportunities, Cassandra Thompson shares advanced strategies and nuanced advice for effective networking. The discussion includes planning ahead for events, staying informed with current news, building confidence in social settings, gracefully exiting conversations, and the importance of follow-ups. Additionally, Cassandra reveals a unique tactic involving sending Starbucks e-gift cards as a token of appreciation, normally reserved for her paying clients. Tune in to elevate your networking skills and build genuine, fruitful relationships. 00:00 Introduction to Advanced Networking 01:32 Planning Ahead for Networking Success 02:48 Staying Informed: The Importance of News 06:11 Entering the Room with Confidence 08:09 Mastering the Art of Leaving Conversations 12:20 The Power of Follow-Up 13:40 The Ultimate Networking Hack 16:00 Conclusion and Next Steps SHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendation SHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8 If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradvice SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️ Contact: [email protected] https://www.cassthompson.com/speaker INFO 🌟 Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsulting ABOUT This isn’t your grandpa’s networking. What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships? What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you? At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships. When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot! DISCLOSURE 🌟 Thank you for trusting me with my honest and reliable opinion on any future purchase you may make. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information when it is the case. As a part of our community, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. This doesn't affect you in any way in the checkout process unless I've been able to arrange a discount for you that is special from other customers. Thank you for supporting this channel!

Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connection SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️ Contact: [email protected] https://www.cassthompson.com/speaker Start posting on LinkedIn with our FREE list of 20 Things to Post on LinkedIn: https://www.cassthompson.com/linkedin20 In this episode of 'Creating Opportunities,' host Cassandra Thompson addresses the real challenge in networking: the follow-up. Cassidy explains that most people's struggle is not in meeting new contacts but in maintaining those relationships. She explores various mindset blocks such as perfectionism, fear of rejection, imposter syndrome, and the assumption of disinterest that prevent effective follow-ups. Cassandra then provides practical systems and strategies to overcome these barriers, including setting aside specific times for follow-ups and maintaining consistent, meaningful contact. She emphasizes the importance of being the one to take the initiative in relationship-building, even when the payoff isn’t immediate. Tune in to discover how to create a sustainable follow-up system that can lead to long-term professional opportunities. 00:00 The Real Challenge of Networking 01:28 Mindset Blocks: Perfectionism and Fear of Rejection 02:41 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Low Self-Worth 03:49 Assumptions and the Importance of Going First 05:13 Creating Systems for Effective Follow-Up 08:01 Avoiding the Awkward Spiral and All-or-Nothing Attitude 10:58 The Futility Mindset and Long-Term Relationship Building 13:44 Practical Tips for Consistent Follow-Up 15:57 Conclusion and Next Steps SHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendation SHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8 If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradvice SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️ Contact: [email protected] https://www.cassthompson.com/speaker INFO 🌟 Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsulting ABOUT This isn’t your grandpa’s networking. What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships? What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you? At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships. When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot!

Book a call to discuss Cass speaking at your next event! https://www.cassthompson.com/speaker Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connection In this episode of 'Creating Opportunities,' Cassandra Thompson explores the rising sense of loneliness at work, both remote and in-office, compared to pre-2019. The episode delves into the root causes, such as prioritizing productivity over connection and the loss of transitions like casual conversations. The discussion highlights how disconnection negatively impacts employee turnover, morale, and productivity, costing businesses billions. Cassandra offers practical solutions for both in-person and remote workers to rebuild these essential connections through small, intentional interactions. She also emphasizes the importance of leaders fostering a culture of connection and warns against the dangers of ignoring these human aspects in the workplace. 00:00 Introduction: The Growing Loneliness at Work 00:59 Efficiency Over Connection: The Trade-Off 03:32 The Importance of Transitions 07:07 The Hidden Costs of Disconnection 09:47 Rebuilding Connection: Practical Tips 13:44 Remote Work: Staying Connected Virtually 17:56 Conclusion: The Challenge to Connect Start posting on LinkedIn with our FREE list of 20 Things to Post on LinkedIn: https://www.cassthompson.com/linkedin20 SHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendation SHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8 If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradvice SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️ Contact: [email protected] https://www.cassthompson.com/speaker INFO 🌟 Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsulting ABOUT This isn’t your grandpa’s networking. What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships? What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you? At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships. When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot! DISCLOSURE 🌟 Thank you for trusting me with my honest and reliable opinion on any future purchase you may make. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information when it is the case. As a part of our community, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. This doesn't affect you in any way in the checkout process unless I've been able to arrange a discount for you that is special from other customers. Thank you for supporting this channel!

Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connection Start posting on LinkedIn with our FREE list of 20 Things to Post on LinkedIn: https://www.cassthompson.com/linkedin20 In this SUPERSIZED episode of the Creating Opportunities Podcast, host Cassandra discusses the most common networking mistakes that professionals make and offers actionable advice on how to avoid them. The episode focuses on building authentic relationships rather than treating networking as a transactional exercise. Key mistakes covered include only reaching out when you need something, failing to follow up, making conversations all about yourself, not having a clear ask, and ignoring online networking. Cassandra provides tips such as maintaining consistent contact, sending follow-up messages within 24-48 hours, engaging others in meaningful conversations, making specific asks, and leveraging online platforms for networking. Additionally, the episode highlights mistakes commonly made during networking events and one-on-one meetings, emphasizing the importance of genuine connections and balanced conversations. 00:00 Introduction to Networking Challenges 01:15 Biggest Networking Mistake: Only Reaching Out When Needed 02:55 Importance of Consistent Follow-Up 05:19 Avoid Making Conversations All About You 08:43 The Power of a Clear Ask 12:11 Don't Ignore Online Networking 14:21 Networking at In-Person Events 22:08 Navigating Networking Conversations 22:40 Authentic Questions to Ask 23:16 Handling Awkward Networking Moments 24:08 Confidently Connect Workshop 24:30 Mistake #4: Getting Stuck in One Conversation 25:40 Mistake #5: Not Following Up 28:04 Biggest One-on-One Networking Mistakes 28:32 Mistake #1: Making It All About You 33:52 Mistake #2: Oversharing Too Soon 35:58 Mistake #3: Treating It Like a Sales Pitch 38:12 Mistake #4: Having Too Formalized an Agenda 42:03 Mistake #5: Adding People to Your Email List Without Permission SHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendation SHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8 If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradvice SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️ Contact: [email protected] www.cassthompson.com/speaker INFO 🌟 Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsulting ABOUT This isn’t your grandpa’s networking. What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships? What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you? At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships. When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot!

Follow Shine Image Consulting on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/shineimageconsulting/ Learn about their consultations at https://calendly.com/shineyourimage/30min Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connection Start posting on LinkedIn with our FREE list of 20 Things to Post on LinkedIn: https://www.cassthompson.com/linkedin20 This episode of Creating Opportunities discusses the importance of personal image and how dressing impacts the energy and impressions one brings into various settings. The host, Cassandra, introduces her friends Laura and Jacqueline from Shine Image Consulting, who share their journey from the corporate finance world to starting their own consulting business focused on image. They emphasize that while clothing is just the cherry on top, the overall image plays a crucial role in personal and business success. The discussion covers the importance of dressing appropriately to boost self-confidence and credibility in both virtual and in-person interactions. The guests also provide practical advice on daily dressing habits and the value of small efforts in making a positive impression. They address common misconceptions about fashion, stress the significance of personal style, and offer tips for succeeding in professional environments. 00:00 The Impact of Image on Personal Energy 00:25 Introducing Laura and Jack from Shine Image Consulting 01:09 The Origins of Shine Image Consulting 03:00 The Importance of Dressing Well During the Pandemic 06:54 How Style Affects First Impressions 08:05 Building Self-Esteem Through Style 12:31 Practical Tips for Elevating Your Image 17:20 Dressing for Everyday Confidence 20:55 Starting Small: Building Confidence Through Style 21:20 Breaking the Norms: Dressing for Yourself 22:24 Inspiration in Everyday Encounters 23:44 The Power of a Simple Hello 25:47 Practical Style Tips for Everyday Situations 26:46 The Impact of Effort on Personal and Professional Life 28:48 Societal Standards and Personal Style 31:23 Fun Style Myths and Must-Have Accessories 33:44 Networking and Style: Making a Lasting Impression 35:20 Final Thoughts and Where to Find Us SHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendation SHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8 If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradvice SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️ Contact: [email protected] www.cassthompson.com/speaker INFO 🌟 Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsulting ABOUT This isn’t your grandpa’s networking. What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships? What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you? At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships. When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot! DISCLOSURE 🌟 Thank you for trusting me with my honest and reliable opinion on any future purchase you may make. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information when it is the case. As a part of our community, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. This doesn't affect you in any way in the checkout process unless I've been able to arrange a discount for you that is special from other customers. Thank you for supporting this channel!

Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connection Start posting on LinkedIn with our FREE list of 20 Things to Post on LinkedIn: https://www.cassthompson.com/linkedin20 In this episode of the Creating Opportunities Podcast, host Cassandra discusses the importance of first impressions and common mistakes people make. She outlines five key mistakes: looking miserable, talking too much about oneself, coming on too strong, looking sloppy, and being distracted. Cassandra offers practical advice to avoid these pitfalls, such as maintaining a positive demeanor, engaging in balanced conversations, dressing presentably, and paying focused attention to others. This episode is aimed at helping smart, ambitious professionals create better relationships for success. 00:00 Introduction: The Power of First Impressions 00:59 Mistake #1: Looking Miserable (RBF) 03:04 Mistake #2: Talking All About Ourselves 04:21 Mistake #3: Coming On Too Strong 07:23 Mistake #4: Looking Sloppy 10:38 Mistake #5: Being Distracted 11:45 Conclusion and Next Steps SHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendation SHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8 If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradvice SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️ Contact: [email protected] www.cassthompson.com/speaker INFO 🌟 Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsulting ABOUT This isn’t your grandpa’s networking. What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships? What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you? At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships. When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot!

Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connection Start posting on LinkedIn with our FREE list of 20 Things to Post on LinkedIn: https://www.cassthompson.com/linkedin20 Non-Verbal First Impression: https://youtu.be/6ngVY57MT8M In this episode of the Creating Opportunities Podcast, host Cassandra discusses the importance of first impressions and offers practical advice on how to introduce yourself effectively. She highlights the pitfalls of using elevator pitches, emphasizing the significance of keeping introductions simple, warm, and natural. Cassandra advises on the importance of practicing confident language, avoiding weak phrases, and paying attention to nonverbal cues. The episode concludes with a teaser for the next episode, which will focus on the impact of appearance on first impressions. 00:00 Introduction: Making a Great First Impression 00:18 Welcome to the Creating Opportunities Podcast 00:43 Series Overview: First Impressions 01:02 The Power of Words in First Impressions 02:13 Avoiding the Elevator Pitch 03:17 Crafting a Simple and Genuine Introduction 04:09 Sharing Your Story with Confidence 05:07 Adapting Your Introduction to Different Contexts 07:23 Using Confident Language 09:45 Practice Makes Perfect 11:09 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes SHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendation SHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8 If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradvice SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️ Contact: [email protected] www.cassthompson.com/speaker INFO 🌟 Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsulting ABOUT This isn’t your grandpa’s networking. What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships? What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you? At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships. When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot!

Confidently Connect Workshop Info: https://www.cassthompson.com/connectworkshop Start posting on LinkedIn with our FREE list of 20 Things to Post on LinkedIn: https://www.cassthompson.com/linkedin20 First Impressions Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbLbYu8FmO5ljfaord5ejlL01OEFZdDcF Mastering Nonverbal Cues for First Impressions In this episode of the Creating Opportunities Podcast, host Cassandra delves into the importance of nonverbal cues in creating first impressions. Discussing body language, eye contact, and the nuances of smiling and handshaking, Cassandra offers practical tips and insights for smart, ambitious professionals looking to improve their interpersonal skills. Listeners will learn how to project confidence, engage effectively, and practice these skills in everyday interactions to build better relationships and gain success. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:08 The Importance of Nonverbal Cues 01:02 Body Language Tips 02:39 Mastering Eye Contact 05:33 The Power of a Smile 06:05 Handshakes and Alternatives 07:34 Conclusion and Next Steps SHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendation SHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8 If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradvice SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️ Contact: [email protected] www.cassthompson.com/speaker INFO 🌟 Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsulting ABOUT This isn’t your grandpa’s networking. What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships? What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you? At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships. When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot!

Get the Confidently Connect: Overcome Networking Nerves at In-Person Events on-demand workshop at https://www.cassthompson.com/connectworkshop. Unsure of how to introduce yourself in business and social settings? In this video I'll share with you the simple formula to easily introduce yourself without feeling awkward! Want to reach out but not sure what to say? Get the FREE "But What Do I Say?!?" Connection Messages Guidebook to steal our words and take them as your own! https://www.cassthompson.com/connection Start posting on LinkedIn with our FREE list of 20 Things to Post on LinkedIn: https://www.cassthompson.com/linkedin20 SHOP AMAZON to See our Favorite Things! It's no extra cost to you but it does give us a small percentage for giving you the recommendation SHOP → → → https://amzn.to/2QfWCV8 If you want to see EXACTLY what I buy, check out all my Favorites, in my store HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/cassthompsoncareeradvice SPEAKING INQUIRIES 🙋🏼‍♀️ Contact: [email protected] www.cassthompson.com/speaker INFO 🌟 Check out our Founder's other channel for job search advice: https://www.youtube.com/c/cassthompsonconsulting ABOUT This isn’t your grandpa’s networking. What if you stopped networking and instead started building intentional, authentic relationships? What if you made building authentic relationships a part of your weekly and monthly goals? What if you met cool people just for the sake of meeting cool people, and you allowed yourself to see where it takes you? At One Hello, we discourage “networking” for the sake of leverage and, instead, help you focus on building real relationships. When networking feels less transactional and more like it should (like it’s enriching our lives), that’s the sweet spot! DISCLOSURE 🌟 Thank you for trusting me with my honest and reliable opinion on any future purchase you may make. I always disclose affiliate or sponsored information when it is the case. As a part of our community, you allow me to earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate/referral links. This doesn't affect you in any way in the checkout process unless I've been able to arrange a discount for you that is special from other customers. Thank you for supporting this channel!