Send us a text
If you’re a mid-career professional feeling stuck in your job, the thought of “networking” might make you cringe. Maybe it feels transactional, forced, or just plain awkward. But when networking is done “right,” it doesn’t feel like networking at all. In fact, it can be fun and energizing.
In this episode of The Mid-Career GPS Podcast, John Neral shows you how to transform networking from an uncomfortable chore into a natural, ongoing part of your career development. You’ll learn how to approach networking as relationship building, so it feels authentic, valuable, and mutually beneficial.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- Why networking is really about cultivating genuine, long-term professional relationships
- How to create a unique professional value statement that clearly communicates who you help and how you help them
- Why you should leverage your existing network before trying to meet new people
- The art of the informational interview—and how one powerful question can open unexpected doors
- Why “give before you ask” is the mindset shift that changes everything
- How to use LinkedIn effectively without posting constantly (hint: engagement matters more)
- Why only 4% of LinkedIn users post regularly—and how to stand out through thoughtful interaction
Whether you’re job searching, looking for a promotion, or simply investing in your professional future, these strategies will help you network in a way that feels natural—and works.
Resources & Next Steps:
- Get a LinkedIn Profile Audit for just $50: johnneral.com/resources
- Join the Mid-Career GPS Membership Community for ongoing career development support: johnneral.com/membership
Keywords for SEO: mid-career networking tips, how to network without being awkward, authentic networking strategies, mid-career job search tips, LinkedIn networking for professionals, professional relationship building, networking advice for managers, career clarity mid-career, informational interviews, job search networking strategies
Support the show
Ready to give your career the jumpstart it needs to whatever is next? Schedule a $197 Career/Leadership Strategy Session. Click here to learn more about how this transformative strategy session will help you.
Visit https://johnneral.com/resources to:
- Subscribe to my free leadership and career newsletter
- Get The Mid-Career Promotion Blueprint to help you figure out whatever is next for you and your career
- Join The Mid-Career GPS Membership Community.
Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts here.
Connect with John on LinkedIn here.
Get John's New Mid-Career Journal on Amazon here.
Follow John on Instagram @johnneralcoaching.
Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel here.
Job Search, Promotion, and Career Clarity: The Mid-Career GPS Podcast