Why Most Networking Advice Is Wrong — And What Actually Builds Influence

Networking doesn’t fail because you’re bad at it — it fails because most people were taught to do it wrong.In this episode of The Brandinc PR Podcast, Brandi Sims sits down with award-winning business communication expert Michael A. Forman to break down why surface-level networking keeps professionals stuck — and how authentic communication creates real opportunity, influence, and income.From his journey as a U.S. Air Force veteran to becoming the author of Networking Unleashed, Michael shares how genuine connection outperforms transactional networking every time — especially in today’s digital, AI-driven world.🎯 In this episode, we cover:• Why networking events feel awkward — and how to fix it• The biggest communication mistakes professionals make• How to build trust without forcing conversations• Turning relationships into long-term career leverage• Why connection, not visibility, drives real successIf you’re tired of “collecting contacts” and ready to build relationships that actually move your career forward — this episode is for you.🎧 Listen now and learn how to network with purpose, confidence, and impact.Connect with Michael at www.michaelaforman.com or Follow him at www.linkedin.com/in/michaelforman. RESOURCES + LINKSGet Brandi’s AI-Powered Tool For Pitching Media ⁠Right Here⁠.Revamp Your Business Foundation with Our Exact Automation Tool That Streamlines Our Communications From Prospects to Media Bookings in Minutes. ⁠Start For Free⁠.Ready to stop guessing your PR strategy? The PR Playbook Bootcamp gives you Brandi’s complete step-by-step framework for building consistent media momentum. ⁠Enroll Here⁠.⁠Sign Up for Our Free Weekly Newsletter⁠ & Get Insights From Brandi Bi-Weekly On All Things Brand Strategy, PR, Business Trends + More. Drop Us A Review and we’ll Send You ⁠Our 5 Things You Must Have to Be A Media Magnet⁠ FREE (Value $297).