Today we’d like to introduce you to Diane Darling

Hi Diane, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

The industrial freighter felt enormous to six-year-old me as it sailed from San Francisco to the Philippines—a three-week voyage that marked the beginning of a unique journey. Soon, I found myself as the new kid—and the only white girl—in a classroom in a local school. Over the next decade, I would attend six new schools, navigating life from rural Indiana to Bangkok and back to the U.S. for my senior year of high school. This was before the age of Facebook, email, or easy ways to keep in touch, so I quickly learned how to connect with strangers and make friends.

This experience taught me the emotional intelligence behind making connections, which later evolved into networking—a skill I would eventually teach to others. To overcome my fear of public speaking, I took acting and standup comedy classes, which not only helped me speak with confidence but also shaped my out-of-the-box, strategic approach to teaching others, especially introverts like me. This journey even led me to become a commencement speaker at MIT Charm School (yes, it exists!).

Today, I am grateful for these experiences, which have influenced my work as a speaker, coach, author, and instructor. I’ve traveled to all seven continents and approximately 60 countries, continuously learning about people, cultures, and communication. Currently based in Boston, MA, I remain committed to understanding the diverse nature of human encounters, which enriches how I connect with learners and clients.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

The road has been far from smooth, filled with both external and internal challenges. External struggles, such as economic fluctuations, presidential elections, or unexpected events like COVID-19, are things beyond our control that require resilience and the ability to pick up the pieces when they disrupt plans.

Internal challenges often involve managing team dynamics, where you have some level of control. When a team member gets ill, or when you need to hire new people, you have to juggle responsibilities and support your team while managing your own strengths and weaknesses. I didn’t start my business to be a manager—I did it because I love what I do. But there’s the necessary “adulting” that comes with running a business, from taxes to invoicing and sales calls. My strengths lie in creative problem-solving and resilience, but the day-to-day management often feels overwhelming. Balancing these aspects has been one of the more persistent challenges of my journey.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Skills4Today DBA Diane Darling?

I am a consultant, keynote speaker, instructor, and leadership coach specializing in professional networking strategies. With over 20 years of experience, I help individuals and organizations harness the power of networking for career growth and business success.

I offer a range of services, including virtual and in-person speaking engagements, one-on-one coaching, and strategic consulting. My approach is to meet clients where they are in their journey and provide tailored support. I’ve worked with clients across industries, from accounting and architecture to higher education.

I’m proud to be considered a pioneer in social networking; McGraw-Hill commissioned me to write “The Networking Survival Guide” in 2003, well before the days of LinkedIn or Facebook. It was a hit, going into a second printing just 90 days after release. I continue to write and share insights through my newsletter, “The Net Effect.”

I’m passionate about helping others realize their untapped talents and skills, often overlooked or undervalued. I love problem-solving and have even developed creative workshops like “Watercooler Football” to help people feel more included in conversations. Through Skills4Today, I offer practical, actionable training programs that ensure individuals and organizations thrive by mastering essential communication and leadership skills.

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?

Growing up, I was curious, adaptable, and always the friendly kid who looked out for others. I moved frequently and adjusted well to new environments, which helped me develop a natural interest in people and cultures. I was fascinated by photography, travel, and understanding what makes people tick—I even thought about becoming a therapist before I fully understood what that meant. These early experiences laid the foundation for my passion for connecting with others and sharing those skills through my work today.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.dianedarling.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dianedarlingspeaker/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DianeDarlingSpeaker
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/DianeDarling
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DianeDarlingSpeaker
• Other: https://www.loom.com/share/57a2776ef5764de2b90b669bba64a18c