What if the path you set out on isn't the one you end up taking? Our guest, Michael Smith, embodies the courage it takes to redefine success. After thriving in the oil and gas industry, Michael co-founded a recruitment tech company, challenging the typical narrative of career stability. Journey with us as Michael revisits his roots, trading childhood dreams of aeronautics for a global career in energy, and ultimately, daring to leap into an entirely new field. His story is a testament to the power of adaptability and the exciting potential that comes with exploring different avenues.Michael shares invaluable insights on nurturing talent and the role of encouragement and mentorship in personal and professional growth. As he recounts his rise to a maintenance team leader at Shell, Michael highlights the importance of demonstrating skills and resilience. Breaking free from societal expectations and finding validation beyond job titles is no easy feat, yet Michael's narrative shows us the rewards of stepping outside comfort zones and embracing one's true motivations. We also reflect on the transformative impact of becoming a parent and how it can reshape one's priorities, emphasizing that true fulfillment lies beyond material achievements.As the world faced the COVID-19 pandemic, Michael encountered a critical period of introspection—his own "great reset." This episode uncovers how meaningful connections became paramount in his life, influencing both personal growth and his innovative approach to recruitment. Through video cover letters, Michael and his co-founder Paul are revolutionizing the hiring process, creating a more inclusive, human-centric experience that benefits both introverts and extroverts. Their vision challenges traditional norms, aiming to rehumanize recruitment and build a global workforce platform that connects individuals to opportunities like never before. Join us for a conversation that promises to inspire and reframe how you view success and career fulfillment.Follow Michael on Linkedin here.Learn more about UseVerb here: https://useverb.com/——————————-Liked this episode? A few things:1. Share the podcast with three of your closest friends! And please leave a great review on Apple Podcasts here or Spotify here (tap on the three-dot menu under the cover art of the podcast) , as it would mean a lot to me and hopefully help others discover it.2. You will love my emails called Charge-Up! They're no fluff no spam, where I share my favourite career insights from movies, TV shows, news and my own personal experiences, that I don't share anywhere else. Make sure you sign up here! 3. Come hang out with me LIVE on LinkedIn and Youtube every Friday at 2 pm CET where I answer your questions and often bring in fab guests:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonalbahl/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/SuperChargeYourself4. Share your favourite takeaways and tag me on your Instagram and LinkedIn.