097: How to build career opportunities before they are even advertised with Becs Smith and Charlotte Kleeman

Thank you to BCH for sponsoring this episode. Summary In this episode, Sandra speaks with Becs and Charlotte, co-chairs of GIN, about how career opportunities are often created long before a role is ever advertised, and what that means for how we show up at work today. Sandra, Becs and Charlotte unpack how to build that visibility in a way that feels natural, not forced. How to articulate your value without ego, and why networking is less about events and more about consistent, meaningful relationships. They also challenge one of the biggest misconceptions about career progression: That opportunities are applied for, rather than created. This is a conversation about being intentional, building trust, and positioning yourself for opportunities before they even exist. Becs and Charlotte, also share the behind the scenes of the amazing network GIN, including its future plans. Key Takeaways Many career opportunities are shaped before a role is ever advertised. Visibility is no longer accidental, it must be intentional. Relationships should be built before you need them. Networking is about consistency, not one-off interactions. You can communicate your value clearly without ego or self-promotion. About the Guest Connect with Becs Smith on LinkedIn. Connect with Charlotte Kleeman on LinkedIn. Find out more about GIN Gender Inclusion Network. About the Host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Sign up to ‘Coffee with Sandra’ newsletter to stay up to date on all things 100 Women in Insurance. Join ‘The Pink Book’ Collective — a private LinkedIn group connecting women in insurance to find mentors, speaking opportunities and more.