The Mid-Career GPS Podcast

John Neral

John Neral had a mid-career moment that changed his path and direction. Building a Mid-Career GPS helped guide him to create what was next for his career. Now, he’s here to help you do the same. Join him and his guests as they share their stories, strategies, and tips to help you create whatever is next so you can find a job you love or love the job you have. read less

BusinessBusiness

Start Here

204: Creating Your Leadership Brand Statement with Bill G. Williams

Who says you can't teach an established professional new tricks? Brace yourself for an enlightening journey with our distinguished guest, Bill G Williams, as we venture into the world of mid-career leadership and professional branding. Bill, a leader in his own right, shares his wealth of insights on the art of climbing the career ladder and securing that highly sought-after leadership role. We discuss the power of a cunningly crafted leadership brand statement and its effect on your career trajectory. Plus, you get to hear a personal, career-defining moment from Bill himself that shaped his illustrious career in leadership development.Our conversation dives deeper into the intricacies of mid-career leadership, underscoring self-awareness and the potent potential of a career shock in refining leadership skills. We emphasize the significance of understanding where you currently stand and where you aspire to be as a leader. And not to forget, we throw light upon the indispensable role of trusted advisors, the importance of nurturing authentic relationships, and the merit of treating your team with respect. We further examine the virtues of continuous improvement and authenticity in leadership.Learning from mistakes, focusing on personal growth, leveraging strengths—sounds like a mantra for success, doesn't it? We further dissect these aspects, along with the importance of fostering diversity in your team and effectively navigating the maze of organizational politics. We highlight strategies for assembling your personal board of directors and trusted advisors, and introduce the concept of PI - Performance, Image, and Exposure - as foundational pillars in constructing a leadership brand. Remember, leadership isn't just a role; it's a choice, and how you choose to show up can make or break your career. So, join us, along with Bill G Williams, on this intriguing journey to uncover the secrets of effective leadership.Connect with Bill G. WilliamsLinkedIn | Website | B4Group | Book | NewsletterSupport the showThank you for listening to The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here. Visit https://johnneral.com to download your free "Mid-Career Job Seekers Checklist." Plus, check out other leadership and career resources at https://johnneral.com/resources. Connect with John on LinkedIn here.Follow John on Instagram & Threads @johnneralcoaching. Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

204: Creating Your Leadership Brand Statement with Bill G. Williams

Who says you can't teach an established professional new tricks? Brace yourself for an enlightening journey with our distinguished guest, Bill G Williams, as we venture into the world of mid-career leadership and professional branding. Bill, a leader in his own right, shares his wealth of insights on the art of climbing the career ladder and securing that highly sought-after leadership role. We discuss the power of a cunningly crafted leadership brand statement and its effect on your career trajectory. Plus, you get to hear a personal, career-defining moment from Bill himself that shaped his illustrious career in leadership development.Our conversation dives deeper into the intricacies of mid-career leadership, underscoring self-awareness and the potent potential of a career shock in refining leadership skills. We emphasize the significance of understanding where you currently stand and where you aspire to be as a leader. And not to forget, we throw light upon the indispensable role of trusted advisors, the importance of nurturing authentic relationships, and the merit of treating your team with respect. We further examine the virtues of continuous improvement and authenticity in leadership.Learning from mistakes, focusing on personal growth, leveraging strengths—sounds like a mantra for success, doesn't it? We further dissect these aspects, along with the importance of fostering diversity in your team and effectively navigating the maze of organizational politics. We highlight strategies for assembling your personal board of directors and trusted advisors, and introduce the concept of PI - Performance, Image, and Exposure - as foundational pillars in constructing a leadership brand. Remember, leadership isn't just a role; it's a choice, and how you choose to show up can make or break your career. So, join us, along with Bill G Williams, on this intriguing journey to uncover the secrets of effective leadership.Connect with Bill G. WilliamsLinkedIn | Website | B4Group | Book | NewsletterSupport the showThank you for listening to The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here. Visit https://johnneral.com to download your free "Mid-Career Job Seekers Checklist." Plus, check out other leadership and career resources at https://johnneral.com/resources. Connect with John on LinkedIn here.Follow John on Instagram & Threads @johnneralcoaching. Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

203: Surviving the Office Party: A Holiday Guide

203: Surviving the Office Party: A Holiday Guide

Feeling the holiday stress creeping in? We get it. The jingle bells, the mistletoe, the office parties - all while managing your work commitments and personal life. This is where we come in! This week, we take on the tricky task of balancing holiday cheer and work duties. We'll provide handy tips on setting boundaries for holiday events, juggling work and family commitments, and supporting junior colleagues who might be feeling overwhelmed by it all.But that's not all. If you're dreading the office party or feeling the pressure to attend all the holiday events, we've got you covered. We dissect whether this pressure is self-imposed or from the higher-ups, provide strategies for attending these parties with a game plan, and discuss how to bow out gracefully if you need to. And for our virtual folks, we offer suggestions on inclusive activities and designing that perfect exit strategy. We wrap up with a thank you, reminding our listeners to engage with us on social media, leave your reviews, and tune in next week for more insights. And remember, our special digital course for mid-career professionals is always there to help you redefine your career path and worth. So join us, and let's navigate the holiday season stress-free, together!Enrollment is open for John's new digital course, "From Career Crossroads to Career Clarity: A Step-By-Step Guide to Finding Your Sweet Spot at Mid-Career."Click here to join the course. Enrollment is open until November 30, 2023 at 3:00 p..m. Eastern. Support the showThank you for listening to The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here. Visit https://johnneral.com to download your free "Mid-Career Job Seekers Checklist." Plus, check out other leadership and career resources at https://johnneral.com/resources. Connect with John on LinkedIn here.Follow John on Instagram & Threads @johnneralcoaching. Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

202: "The December Advantage" & How It Can Accelerate Your Career Growth

202: "The December Advantage" & How It Can Accelerate Your Career Growth

What if the holiday season was actually the best time to seek new career opportunities? Let's shatter this myth together as we explore the December advantage, an overlooked opportunity to reflect on your accomplishments, identify areas for growth, and strategize your next career move. I, John Nerrell, will be your guide through this episode, sharing personal experiences and valuable insights to inspire you to make the most of this season.As we approach the end of the year, many mid-career professionals face common career roadblocks, from procrastination to fear of change and perfectionism. But fear not; we'll face this head-on and arm you with five strategic tips to level up your career. We'll also discuss the importance of recognizing and reinforcing the value you bring to your organization daily because you're worth it. Whether you're hoping to fall back in love with your current job or eyeing a brand new one, this episode pledges to help you navigate your mid-career GPS more effectively. Tune in, and let's transform your career journey together.Click here to join John's digital course, "From Career Crossroads to Career Clarity: A Step-By-Step Guide to Finding Your Sweet Spot at Mid-Career."Support the showThank you for listening to The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here. Visit https://johnneral.com to download your free "Mid-Career Job Seekers Checklist." Plus, check out other leadership and career resources at https://johnneral.com/resources. Connect with John on LinkedIn here.Follow John on Instagram & Threads @johnneralcoaching. Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

201: Career Clarity and Gratitude: A Mid-Career Strategy Guide

201: Career Clarity and Gratitude: A Mid-Career Strategy Guide

Struggling to maintain that human connection in the digital workspace? Imagine being able to express your gratitude to colleagues and leadership in a way that makes them feel seen, valued, and appreciated. This episode is packed with practical tips on how to do just that, from acknowledging contributions no matter how small, to signing off your emails with intention. I'll also introduce you to my new digital course, "From Career Crossroads to Career Clarity," a roadmap designed to help you find your sweet spot at mid-career.But wait, there's more! We're not just focusing on gratitude, we're also looking at how to build your mid-career GPS with strategy. We discuss the importance of staying connected with your colleagues even when working remotely, and building solid relationships that will help you navigate your mid-career journey with clarity and purpose. It's all about recognizing the work of others and understanding the value of those contributions in order to boost workplace morale. So buckle up and get ready for a comprehensive guide to expressing appreciation in the workplace and shaping your mid-career journey like a pro!Enroll in John's brand-new digital course "From Career Crossroads to Career Clarity: A Step-By-Step Guide to Finding Your Sweet Spot at Mid-Career." Get full access to the course starting on December 1st. Learn more here. Support the showThank you for listening to The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here. Visit https://johnneral.com to download your free "Mid-Career Job Seekers Checklist." Plus, check out other leadership and career resources at https://johnneral.com/resources. Connect with John on LinkedIn here.Follow John on Instagram & Threads @johnneralcoaching. Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

BONUS: From Career Crossroads to Career Clarity - Your Step-By-Step Guide

BONUS: From Career Crossroads to Career Clarity - Your Step-By-Step Guide

Are you standing at a professional crossroads, contemplating where to pivot next in your mid-career journey? It's a common circumstance for mid-career professionals who want to level up their careers but aren't sure how to do that effectively. Here's where I can help you. In this bonus episode, you'll listen to my recent webinar, "A Painless 3-Step Plan to Figure Out What's Next for You and Your Career."Plus, enrollment is open for my brand-new digital course, "From Career Crossroads to Career Clarity: A Step=By-Step Guide to Finding Your Sweet Spot at Mid-Career." You'll learn the benefits of how my digital course can help you figure out your next professional move while learning at your own pace, along with a ton of resources and information, just like you were working with me one-on-one. Click here to learn more and save your seat in my digital course. Enrollment closes on Thursday, November 30th at 3:00 p.m. Eastern and the course goes LIVE on December 1st. Support the showThank you for listening to The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here. Visit https://johnneral.com to download your free "Mid-Career Job Seekers Checklist." Plus, check out other leadership and career resources at https://johnneral.com/resources. Connect with John on LinkedIn here.Follow John on Instagram & Threads @johnneralcoaching. Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

200: Self-Promotion Made Easier with Ellen Taaffe

200: Self-Promotion Made Easier with Ellen Taaffe

Are you feeling stuck in your career? What if you could break through the barriers that are holding you back? Join me as I sit down with Ellen Taaffe, acclaimed author of The Mirror Door Break Through the Hidden Barrier That Locks Successful Women in Place, to explore insightful strategies for self-promotion and career advancement.Ellen, a career switcher herself who transitioned from PepsiCo to Royal Caribbean, provides valuable insights about overcoming self-doubt, promoting career growth, and making successful pivots. We unpack the concept of FOMO in a career context - the fear of missing out versus FOMU, the fear of messing up, and how these can impact your career decisions. Always remember, job postings are more wishlists than stringent checklists. Ellen offers practical advice on how to shatter mental barriers and embrace the fear of messing up.In our enlightening conversation, we explore five strategies for mid-career success. Are you tirelessly working to get things done or patiently waiting to be noticed? Do you prepare for perfection or are you eager to please? Ellen's insights on these strategies and on how to set boundaries, address conflict, and manage different parts of your identity in the workplace are game-changers. If you're in the midst of a career transition, you'll particularly appreciate her advice on having courage before confidence. Join us for this empowering discussion that could be the catalyst you need for your career breakthrough.Connect with Ellen TaaffeWebsite | Book | LinkedIn Click here to sign up for this month's webinar, "A Painless 3-Step Plan to Figure Out What's Next for You and Your Career in 2024," or visit https://johnneral.com/webinar.Support the showThank you for listening to The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here. Visit https://johnneral.com to download your free "Mid-Career Job Seekers Checklist." Plus, check out other leadership and career resources at https://johnneral.com/resources. Connect with John on LinkedIn here.Follow John on Instagram & Threads @johnneralcoaching. Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

199: Building Your Personal Board of Directors for Career Progression

199: Building Your Personal Board of Directors for Career Progression

Ever wonder who's in your corner as you climb the career ladder? Let's uncover the answer to this question together as we talk about building your personal board of directors, an essential tool for your career progression. Through my experiences at the NextUp Rising Stars Conference, I'll guide you on how to carefully select these individuals who will play a fundamental role in sculpting your professional legacy and help you attain your ambitions.Let's delve deeper into the criteria for picking members for your personal board. Trust and sound judgment are paramount in these relationships and I'll discuss why family members may not be the ideal choice. You'll get a glimpse into my personal board of directors and their invaluable support in my professional journey. And a special heads up - we have an upcoming webinar, "A Painless Three-Step Guide to Figure Out What's Next for You and Your Career in 2024." Be sure to join in and gain insight into effective strategies for managing your career trajectory.To register for this month's webinar, visit https://johnneral.com/webinar. Support the showThank you for listening to The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here. Visit https://johnneral.com to download your free "Mid-Career Job Seekers Checklist." Plus, check out other leadership and career resources at https://johnneral.com/resources. Connect with John on LinkedIn here.Follow John on Instagram & Threads @johnneralcoaching. Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

198: The Hidden Assets of Being a Stellar Follower or Individual Contributor

198: The Hidden Assets of Being a Stellar Follower or Individual Contributor

What if the most significant asset to your team isn't the leader, but the follower? That's right, we're here to shed light on the often overlooked goldmine that is the mid-career follower. We unravel the traits that contribute to an exceptional follower—loyalty, adaptability, reliability, and stellar communication skills. But it doesn't end there; we also delve into the art of time management and how you can leverage your distinct qualities to create a compelling narrative about your value in the team.Now, imagine being so good at your role that you become indispensable—sounds great, right? But what if it becomes a barrier to your growth? We explore this double-edged sword of being too valuable in a specific role through intriguing narratives. We'll guide you through the dynamics of team leadership when a member isn't quite ready or keen on stepping into the leadership role. We also share insights on finding satisfaction and purpose in being a standout follower. Remember, the value of your contribution is never to be underestimated. Tune in as we navigate the nuances of followership and its pivotal role in team success.Visit https://johnneral.com/webinar to sign up for November's webinar called, "A Painless 3-Step Guide to Figuring Out What’s Next for You and Your Career in 2024." A replay will be available, but you have to register. Support the showThank you for listening to The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here. Visit https://johnneral.com to download your free "Mid-Career Job Seekers Checklist." Plus, check out other leadership and career resources at https://johnneral.com/resources. Connect with John on LinkedIn here.Follow John on Instagram & Threads @johnneralcoaching. Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

197: Four Tips to Help You When You No Longer Love Your Job or Organization

197: Four Tips to Help You When You No Longer Love Your Job or Organization

Ever found yourself caught in the drudgery of a job that no longer brings you joy? The sparkle of passion suddenly dulled by monotony? You're not alone. Listen as I share my personal experiences of facing such challenging career moments, reflecting on an intriguing discussion with former Dancing with the Stars host, Tom Bergeron. He candidly opens up about the stark realities of show business - the organizational politics, the shift in passion and the eventual parting of ways. His tale offers valuable insights that could be your guiding light in navigating the rocky phases of your career.But, it doesn't end there. As we delve deeper, we lay down actionable steps to regain control of your career trajectory. We discuss how to handle resentment, identify what's within your control, and underscore the importance of taking full responsibility for your career. Also, we explore the concept of building a mid-careoer GPS, demonstrating how taking it one step at a time and consistently showing up can make a difference. As an added perk, I'll also be sharing ways to connect with me on LinkedIn and follow me for more career guidance and insights. So, tune in, and let's start recalibrating your career today!Support the showThank you for listening to The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here. Visit https://johnneral.com to download your free "Mid-Career Job Seekers Checklist." Plus, check out other leadership and career resources at https://johnneral.com/resources. Connect with John on LinkedIn here.Follow John on Instagram & Threads @johnneralcoaching. Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

196: Best of Episode: Stop Pitching! (Tips to Help You Shape Your Unique Professional Value)

196: Best of Episode: Stop Pitching! (Tips to Help You Shape Your Unique Professional Value)

Imagine turning the tables in your professional conversations and interviews, approaching them from a position of value and service rather than pitching yourself, much like you're on Shark Tank. That's the transformative shift we explore in this enriching episode. We delve into the art of crafting a unique professional value statement, guiding you to leverage your skills and talents effectively. This episode is all about empowering you, the professional, to make a lasting impression without appearing needy or desperate. We challenge the conventional wisdom of 'selling yourself' and discuss a mindset shift that will revolutionize how you network and interview. Building on this, we share useful strategies for developing your unique professional value, helping you connect with your motivations and passion for the work you do. This isn't just about getting hired; it's about becoming invaluable. We also discuss resources and tips specifically tailored for mid-career professionals, showing you how to take full advantage of your network and the resources at your disposal. Finally, you're invited to join our private Facebook group and download free resources to bolster your career journey. Connect with us on LinkedIn and social media to remain plugged into this value-based revolution in professional networking and interviewing. This is your invitation to approach your career with renewed confidence and authenticity.To join Rhonda Sher's Perfect Your Profile (LinkedIn) BootcampClick here | Connect with Rhonda on LinkedIn Support the showThank you for listening to The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here. Visit https://johnneral.com to download your free "Mid-Career Job Seekers Checklist." Plus, check out other leadership and career resources at https://johnneral.com/resources. Connect with John on LinkedIn here.Follow John on Instagram & Threads @johnneralcoaching. Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

195: Best of Episode - Transform Your Conversations: Confidence Tips from Tracy Hooper

195: Best of Episode - Transform Your Conversations: Confidence Tips from Tracy Hooper

Have you ever wondered how to command attention when you enter a room, or introduce yourself with the kind of unwavering confidence that leaves an indelible impression? Prepare to be inspired and informed as we engage with the incredible Tracy Hooper, founder of the Confidence Project and author of the Now Hello. She opens up about her journey from a family of journalists to becoming a professional communicator herself. Tracy's advice on confidently introducing oneself and the significance of physical connection such as making eye contact and shaking hands is just the tip of the iceberg.Transitions can be tough, especially in your career. Tracy expounds on the essential role of communication when navigating through these shifts. She offers practical tips on choosing the right words to elevate your professional presence and shares an inspiring tale of how she sowed the seeds of her business. Her mission of teaching essential communication skills originally targeted at young women, has now grown to include everyone. Don't miss her enlightening perspective!The power of words cannot be underestimated. Tracy and I explore this topic in depth, discussing our choices of words, how to substitute them with more effective ones, and the reasons behind the frequent use of disclaimers. We examine the importance of validators and how something as simple as replacing "I'm sorry" with "thank you" can transform a conversation. At the heart of it all is Tracy's mission through the Confidence Project, empowering people to feel good about themselves without the need for an apology. So, are you ready to step up your communication game? Let's get started!Connect with Tracy HooperWebsite | LinkedInSupport the showThank you for listening to The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here. Visit https://johnneral.com to download your free "Mid-Career Job Seekers Checklist." Plus, check out other leadership and career resources at https://johnneral.com/resources. Connect with John on LinkedIn here.Follow John on Instagram & Threads @johnneralcoaching. Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

194: The Benefits of Self-Coaching in Your Career with Antonia Bowring

194: The Benefits of Self-Coaching in Your Career with Antonia Bowring

Have you ever been knocked down so hard, that it actually became a stepping stone to your success? Antonia Bowring, executive coach and author, opens up about a time in her life when being fired was that hard knock, but now she sees it as the greatest gift she ever received. Join us as we navigate the often daunting journey of mid-career transitions and explore the crucial role our personal values play in achieving our career goals.We also delve deep into the concept of self-coaching, and how empathizing with oneself can make a significant difference. Discover how to intentionally use your time and understand how your environment influences you. We'll even explore the power of the phrase "I am enough". Then, Antonia shares valuable insights into building a successful career by networking effectively, fostering relationships with colleagues and mentors, and how to leverage your unique strengths to stand out in the job market. Tune in for a transformative conversation that promises to equip and inspire you to confidently navigate your career transitions.Connect with Antonia BowringWebsite | LinkedIn | Instagram | TikTok - @antoniabowring963 Support the showThank you for listening to The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here. Visit https://johnneral.com to download your free "Mid-Career Job Seekers Checklist." Plus, check out other leadership and career resources at https://johnneral.com/resources. Connect with John on LinkedIn here.Follow John on Instagram & Threads @johnneralcoaching. Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

193: Dealing with a Health Scare: Lessons in Self-Care, Trust and Self-Coaching

193: Dealing with a Health Scare: Lessons in Self-Care, Trust and Self-Coaching

When was the last time you truly listened to your body? Have you ever ignored a minor health concern, only for it to evolve into a significant issue? I did and it nearly cost me my sight. My journey from noticing a small black spot in my right eye to being diagnosed with a retinal tear and detachment was a terrifying roller-coaster that underscored the importance of self-care, trust in experts, and the power of self-coaching. The fear and anxiety that I experienced were real, and I'm sure many of you have experienced similar feelings in your own health journeys. But, amidst all the fear, something amazing happened - I discovered the profound impact of self-coaching and the healing power of family support. I also realized that trust in experts is vital - they are the ones who have the knowledge and the skills to help us navigate our health issues. My eyesight was at stake, but the impeccable care and support from the team at the Advanced Retina Center and my family kept me grounded.Translate this personal health crisis to our careers, especially when we are mid-career professionals. How often do we ignore our own stress, our health, in the race to be successful? This journey was not just about my eye condition, but it was a reality check about the importance of self-care in every aspect of our lives. Prioritizing health, trusting our gut, and the power of self-coaching - these are lessons that I wish to share with all of you so that you can build a robust mid-career GPS, complete with a comprehensive checklist for job seekers. So, tune in, as together, we explore the importance of putting ourselves first for success in our personal and professional lives.Support the showThank you for listening to The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here. Visit https://johnneral.com to download your free "Mid-Career Job Seekers Checklist." Plus, check out other leadership and career resources at https://johnneral.com/resources. Connect with John on LinkedIn here.Follow John on Instagram & Threads @johnneralcoaching. Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

192: Interview and Networking Tips So People Care About You with Alan Heymann

192: Interview and Networking Tips So People Care About You with Alan Heymann

Ever felt stuck in a career rut, or maybe you're yearning for a change but don't know where to start? Meet Alan Heyman, an executive and leadership coach who's not only navigated the treacherous waters of career transitions himself, but now mentors others through their own, showing us that it's not only possible but can lead to a fulfilling career that truly aligns with our strengths. Alan's personal journey from a communications professional to a leadership coach is nothing short of inspiring. He shares his experience with the inverted pyramid technique – a tool he picked up in journalism school – and how it can be used to powerfully tell your career story.But it's not just about saying 'yes' to new opportunities. Alan also highlights the power and privilege of saying 'no' during career transitions. Understanding this can help you hone your strengths, find the right environment and break free from a stuck mindset. You'll hear about how one of Alan's clients drafted an idealized job description and landed that exact job! Prepare to be empowered as Alan encourages you to explore the universe of possibilities available to you, proving that you have more choices than you might think. Listen to your intuition, build your network and take control of your career journey. It's time to start exploring.Connect with AlanWebsite | LinkedIn Support the showThank you for listening to The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here. Visit https://johnneral.com to download your free "Mid-Career Job Seekers Checklist." Plus, check out other leadership and career resources at https://johnneral.com/resources. Connect with John on LinkedIn here.Follow John on Instagram & Threads @johnneralcoaching. Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

191: Building Your Exit Strategy

191: Building Your Exit Strategy

Who says you need an imminent departure to craft an exit strategy? Trust me, the wisest career move you could make is to map out your exit now while you're perfectly happy where you are. I'm going to convince you why this strategy is the key to unlocking clarity in your career, reducing stress, and priming you for success in any future career moves. But remember, this is no solo endeavor. I'm going to unfold why an effective exit strategy is a collaborative process with your management, steering both parties toward a win-win situation.I'm not just going to tell you why an exit strategy is vital, I'm going to walk you through it step by step. With insights drawn from my own career transitions, I'm going to break down five crucial elements you need to consider in your exit plan: ensuring a seamless handover, nurturing relationships, reviewing your financial status, honoring your long-term career goals, and, importantly, safeguarding your emotional well-being. Whether you're planning to leave or not, these strategies will position you to transition gracefully. So tune in as I share my personal stories and practical tips, and guide you to create an exit strategy that not only safeguards your career but also preps you for future success.Support the showThank you for listening to The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here. Visit https://johnneral.com to download your free "Mid-Career Job Seekers Checklist." Plus, check out other leadership and career resources at https://johnneral.com/resources. Connect with John on LinkedIn here.Follow John on Instagram & Threads @johnneralcoaching. Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

190: The Power of Plan B in Mid-Career with David Shriner-Cahn

190: The Power of Plan B in Mid-Career with David Shriner-Cahn

Are you at the crossroads of your career or considering jumping into the entrepreneurial arena? Join me in an enriching conversation with David Shriner-Kahn, a successful community builder and podcast host who knows a thing or two about managing career transitions and entrepreneurship challenges. Together, we unpack the importance of having a Plan B, managing fear during career shifts, and navigating the solopreneur business landscape. From our personal experiences, we provide actionable advice that can help you sail through your professional journey, especially if you're contemplating leaving your corporate job or are a budding entrepreneur seeking to hone your selling skills.We start by exploring Plan B for mid-career professionals and share strategies on managing fear during career transitions. We also delve into why finding riches in the niches is a game-changer and the importance of reflection during career shifts. We then shift gears and discuss essential strategies for entrepreneurs, the current professional landscape's impact on mid-career professionals, and how to smoothly transition from being an employee to becoming an entrepreneur. Finally, we walk you through the ins and outs of running a successful solopreneur business, from mastering the art of selling to creating efficient systems and automating tasks. So, are you ready to break those career plateaus? Join us in this insightful conversation, and let's do this together!Connect with David!Email - David@SmashingThePlateau.comVisit the Smashing the Plateau WebsiteConnect with David on LinkedInSupport the showThank you for listening to The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here. Visit https://johnneral.com to download your free "Mid-Career Job Seekers Checklist." Plus, check out other leadership and career resources at https://johnneral.com/resources. Connect with John on LinkedIn here.Follow John on Instagram & Threads @johnneralcoaching. Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

189: Are Cover Letters Still Important?

189: Are Cover Letters Still Important?

Ever wondered why your job applications are getting overlooked? Chances are, it's your cover letter—or lack thereof—that's holding you back. This episode is all about turning the daunting task of crafting a cover letter into an exciting opportunity to tell your story better. You'll learn the ins and outs of writing effective cover letters, from understanding your industry and audience to creating a compelling career narrative.Consider this episode your career GPS, guiding you through the complex job application process. While known to stress many, we make it simple and straightforward. We'll cover everything from the importance of a strong header to the power of personalization and the art of closing your letter in a way that grabs a hiring manager's attention. With tips from our exclusive three-paragraph format, you'll be able to streamline your cover letter writing process and enhance your chances of success. So, ready to start your next career journey with confidence? Tune in to learn, grow, and conquer the job market.Read my blog post here to learn my simple three-paragraph format for writing your next cover letter. Support the showThank you for listening to The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here. Visit https://johnneral.com to download your free "Mid-Career Job Seekers Checklist." Plus, check out other leadership and career resources at https://johnneral.com/resources. Connect with John on LinkedIn here.Follow John on Instagram & Threads @johnneralcoaching. Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

188: Mastering Mid-Career Transitions: How to Leverage What You Know with Jason Mack

188: Mastering Mid-Career Transitions: How to Leverage What You Know with Jason Mack

We're about to embark on a compelling journey with our guest, Jason Mack, who successfully transitioned from a 20-year stint in hospitality to a fulfilling role in healthcare. With an eagerness for a more meaningful career and a better work-life balance, Jason employed his skills from the hotel industry and channeled them into his new position. He shares his motivating story, underscoring the significance of understanding what you're seeking, welcoming new experiences, and articulating your worth effectively.Jason delves into the challenges he overcame and how he bridged the gap between his expertise and the healthcare domain's expectations. He imparts valuable advice on preparation for job interviews and tackling potential objections. This episode is enriched by my personal experience, where I navigated my mid-career transition, leveraging my network and the power of staying connected. This exciting dialogue might just be the catalyst you need to plan your mid-career GPS!Connect with Jason Mack on LinkedInSupport the showThank you for listening to The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here. Visit https://johnneral.com to download your free "Mid-Career Job Seekers Checklist." Plus, check out other leadership and career resources at https://johnneral.com/resources. Connect with John on LinkedIn here.Follow John on Instagram & Threads @johnneralcoaching. Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

187: How to Self-Advocate for Your Career Growth

187: How to Self-Advocate for Your Career Growth

Ever thought about how to leverage your unique professional value to get that promotion or high-level seat at the table? Well, this episode is your guide to bridging that gap. I'll share three powerful strategies to help you advocate for your career path authentically and successfully. This isn't about being a braggart or throwing colleagues under the bus, it's about genuinely communicating your worth to any organization.This conversation focuses on how to understand and communicate your value in the most effective way. We also delve into the power of strategic networking and how it's a key player in gaining visibility and powerful feedback. We round up with practical methods to document your achievements, articulate your value in meetings, and how to actively seek feedback that will advance your career. Remember, advocating for your career isn't an annual performance appraisal activity. It's an ongoing process. So, are you ready to own your career growth journey? Tune in and let's navigate this path together.Support the showThank you for listening to The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here. Visit https://johnneral.com to download your free "Mid-Career Job Seekers Checklist." Plus, check out other leadership and career resources at https://johnneral.com/resources. Connect with John on LinkedIn here.Follow John on Instagram & Threads @johnneralcoaching. Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.

186: Off the Top Rope - Lessons in Career Resilience and Transition from Former Professional Wrestler, Wes Rhea

186: Off the Top Rope - Lessons in Career Resilience and Transition from Former Professional Wrestler, Wes Rhea

Ever wanted to switch up your career midway but felt it was too daunting? Meet Wes Ray, a former professional wrestler who dared to dream differently and made it big in corporate healthcare compliance. It's a testament to his courage that he took on this dramatic career change and came out triumphant. His enlightening insights on resilience and the importance of pursuing your passions are sure to inspire you.This episode is packed with useful advice, especially for those contemplating a significant career shift. Hear from Wes on how to harness your strengths, identify exaggerations in skills while interviewing, and the crucial role of evidence in determining job suitability. Wes's inspiring journey from the wrestling ring to the IT sector, backed by his sports-induced resilience, emphasizes the necessity of passion in your career. He also underlines the value of a robust support system, turning failures into learning opportunities, and the critical role of resilience and determination in achieving success. Ready to take the leap? Get inspired by Wes's story.Connect with Wes: LinkedIn | Get His Book Support the showThank you for listening to The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here. Visit https://johnneral.com to download your free "Mid-Career Job Seekers Checklist." Plus, check out other leadership and career resources at https://johnneral.com/resources. Connect with John on LinkedIn here.Follow John on Instagram & Threads @johnneralcoaching. Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.