On June 3, 2026, IPMI hosted a Frontline Fundamental session titled Designing Your Career with Intention: Strategies for Sustainable Success.

 

Presenter:

Dianne L. Oliphant, MS, Manager, Community Relations, Revenue Authority, Prince George’s County

Summary:
Dianne presented her “Thrive by Design” framework, centered on Vision, Voice, Value, and Velocity. Participants reflected on factors that drive career success, identified barriers that may be limiting their growth, and learned how to reframe those beliefs. Through a case study, Dianne highlighted the importance of self-promotion and strategic networking in increasing professional visibility and opportunities. The session concluded with resources for identifying personal strengths and guidance on building effective professional networks.

Key Takeaways from the Frontline Fundamental Session:

Career Coaching, Strengths, and Personal Growth
Dianne shared how her experience with the National Park Service helped her appreciate the value of uncovering and preserving personal stories. She compared this to career coaching, which helps professionals identify and organize their experiences, strengths, and values to create greater career clarity. Through her Thrive by Design framework and strengths assessments such as CliftonStrengths and VIA Character Strengths, she encouraged participants to define their vision of success, recognize their unique value, and identify both internal and external barriers that may be limiting their growth.

Mindset, Visibility, and Career Advancement
Dianne emphasized the impact of mindset on career success, highlighting the importance of reframing limiting beliefs and building self-trust. Using the example of Elena, a high-performing professional who was often overlooked for leadership opportunities, she demonstrated how avoiding self-promotion can limit visibility and advancement. Through coaching, Elena learned to communicate her value more effectively, resulting in greater recognition and new opportunities. Dianne stressed that career growth requires both clarity and intentional action.

Mentoring, Coaching, and Networking Strategies
Dianne explained that mentoring and career coaching serve different purposes, with mentors providing industry guidance and coaches helping individuals gain self-awareness and articulate their value. She discussed the importance of building strong professional networks, noting that close connections often provide support and trust, while weaker ties can introduce new opportunities and perspectives. The session concluded with a discussion on mentoring across generations, adapting to a changing workplace, and resources for continued development, including Strengths Finder 2.0 by Tom Rath and Working Identity by Herminia Ibarra.

Access the full Frontline Fundamental in IPMI’s On-Demand Education Library.
Free for Members
$35 for Non-Members

Interested in future IPMI Frontline Fundamentals? Click here to view upcoming programs.