ATD Dallas Career Development SIG
Hosted by Cherron Castillo
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
In today’s professional landscape, meaningful relationships are more important than ever for professional development, career growth, and the job search process. This interactive practical workshop is designed to help participants move beyond surface-level networking to cultivate value-driven professional connections. Through guided reflection and activities, participants will explore the benefits and impact of professional connections, and key principles and a set of practical strategies to build connections. During the workshop, participants will have an opportunity to practice value-based introductions and to develop a personal action plan to build meaningful connections beyond the workshop.
Participants will also have the opportunity to do an action plan check-in with the facilitator following the workshop. Whether you're early in your career, looking to reinvigorate your professional network, or searching for a job, this workshop will equip you with the mindset and skills to build connections that have lasting value.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
As a result of participating in this workshop, participants will:
- Gain an understanding of the difference between networking and genuine connection
- Explore the professional value of relationship-building
- Learn practical strategies for cultivating meaningful connections
- Practice introducing themselves with authenticity and purpose
- Create a personalized plan for strengthening their connections
- Gain a robust set of practical tools and resources to support their career
ABOUT THE FACILITATOR

Dr. Chris Sax is a high-impact leader in learning, development, and continuous improvement. She brings over 30 years of experience in academic leadership, teaching, training, assessment, quality frameworks, and continuous improvement. She is also a Harvard University-trained consultant with over 20 years of experience helping organizations strengthen their quality.
A seasoned public speaker and trainer, she has delivered in-person and virtual sessions for more than three decades, with over 20 years of expertise in virtual speaking and training facilitation. Since 1998, Chris has taught undergraduate, graduate, and training courses online. Nationally recognized as an expert in online education, she was the Co-Founding Director of the widely adopted Quality Matters program, a benchmark for online course design. She holds the Certified Virtual Facilitator credential from the International Institute for Facilitation (INIFAC).
Chris is also known for creating innovative professional development models that are seamlessly integrated into workplace meetings and committee work, fostering continuous learning in everyday contexts. Her contributions have earned her numerous awards at the state, regional, and national levels for excellence in educational leadership and quality improvement.
AGENDA
6:15 pm – Facilitator Joins
6:30 pm – Welcome & Announcements
6:45 pm – Facilitator/Presentation Time
8:00 pm – Meeting Concludes
LOCATION
ZOOM
REGISTRATION COST
- Member registration: Free!
- Non-Member Guest registration: $10
NOT ABLE TO ATTEND AS PLANNED?
Please cancel your registration by contacting info@tddallas.org
QUESTIONS
Contact 972-233-9107 ext. 224 or email info@tddallas.org
seonghwan.hwang@gmail.com