Topic:  Marketing Yourself in the Age of AI: Unlocking Opportunity Through Smarter Networks and Smarter Tools

Speaker: Christine M. Hollinden, Principal, Hollinden | growth without guesswork

Agenda:
- 4:00-4:45 Informal networking
- 4:45-5:00 Introductions
- 5:00-6:00 Presentation

Presentation:
Standing out takes more than impressive credentials—it takes strategy, creativity, and the willingness to embrace new tools. As financial leaders, you know how to analyze data and drive results; now it’s time to apply that same mindset to marketing yourself. This session will show you how to position your personal brand, strengthen your network, and harness the power of AI to communicate more effectively, uncover new opportunities, and move your career forward. We’ll also explore how open versus closed networks can influence your success and why expanding beyond your immediate circle can spark unexpected connections—and breakthroughs.

Key Takeaways:
- Market Yourself Like a Brand: Position your value as a finance leader and communicate it clearly across your résumé, LinkedIn, and conversations.
- Leverage Open vs. Closed Networks: Understand how the diversity of your connections can directly shape your career opportunities.
- AI as Your Career Co-Pilot: Use ChatGPT, Perplexity, and other tools to research companies, personalize outreach, and prepare for interviews.
- Enhance Communication with AI: Craft stronger messages, persuasive introductions, and polished follow-ups using advanced prompt techniques.
- Master Advanced AI Features: Go beyond basic queries—tap into prompt engineering, plug-ins, and automation to save time and stand out.
- Practical Tools & Tips: Leave with actionable examples and best practices to make your job search smarter and faster.

Speaker's Bio: 

Christine Hollinden, principal of Hollinden | growth without guesswork, leverages her expertise in consulting, M&A, marketing, and financing from roles at Grant Thornton, PwC, and KPMG to help organizations achieve growth. She is a frequent presenter for the AICPA, AM&AA, Association of Financial Professionals, BDO, and Geneva Group International, among others. An active leader in her community, she is the Chapter Leader of AM&AA Houston, Board Member for the financial literacy organization, the 5 Buckets Foundation for financial literacy and Board Member of the Texas Business Hall of Fame. In her spare time, Christine is an avid golfer and is president of a food and wine society.

Sponsor: USI will provide refreshments

All members and prospective members are welcome!