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Mid-career is a pivotal point in one's professional journey. It's a time for reflection, reassessment, and strategic planning for the next chapter. You've likely heard about the importance of networking, but have you considered approaching it intentionally and strategically?The Problem with 'Just Networking'Many professionals understand the importance of networking but often approach it with a vague idea of simply meeting people from different companies. This approach can be time-consuming and yield limited results. To truly leverage networking for mid-career growth, we need a more focused strategy.Introducing the INP Framework: Intentional Networking for Professional GrowthINP, or "Ideal Network Persona", is a concept and framework developed and successfully executed by TechcareerLeap. It's a three-step process designed to help professionals network strategically:<p style="border-color: rgba(229,231,235,var(--tw-border-opacity)); --tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-color: rgba(62,172,255,.5); --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-transform: translateX(var(--tw-translate-x)) translateY(var(--tw-translate-y)) rotate(var(--tw-rotate)) skewX(var(--tw-skew-x)) skewY(var(--tw-skew-y)) scaleX(var(--tw-scale-x)) scaleY(var(--tw-scale-y)); --tw-border-opacity: 1; --tw-filter: var(--tw-blur) var(--tw-brightness) var(--tw-contrast) var(--tw-grayscale) var(--tw-hue-rotate) var(--tw-invert) var(--tw-saturate) var(--tw-sepia) var(--tw-drop-shadow); --tw-backdrop-filter: var(--tw-backdrop-blur) var(--tw-backdrop-brightness) var(--tw-backdrop-contrast) var(--tw-backdrop-grayscale) var(--tw-backdrop-hue-rotate) var(--tw-backdrop-invert) var(--tw-backdrop-opacity) var(--tw-backdrop-saturate) var(--tw-backdrop-sepia); font-size: 18px; line-height: calc(28px * var(--body-fontHeight, 1)); font-weight: 400; font-family: Poppins, sans-serif;" data-mce-style="border-color: rgba(229,231,235,var(--tw-border-opacity)); --tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-color: rgba(62,172,255,.5); --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-transform: translateX(var(--tw-translate-x)) translateY(var(--tw-translate-y)) rotate(var(--tw-rotate)) skewX(var(--tw-skew-x)) skewY(var(--tw-skew-y)) scaleX(var(--tw-scale-x)) scaleY(var(--tw-scale-y)); --tw-border-opacity: 1; --tw-filter: var(--tw-blur) var(--tw-brightness) var(--tw-contrast) var(--tw-grayscale) var(--tw-hue-rotate) var(--tw-invert) var(--tw-saturate) var(--tw-sepia) var(--tw-drop-shadow); --tw-backdrop-filter: var(--tw-backdrop-blur) var(--tw-backdrop-brightness) var(--tw-backdrop-contrast) var(--tw-backdrop-grayscale) var(--tw-backdrop-hue-rotate) var(--tw-backdrop-invert) var(--tw-backdrop-opacity) var(--tw-backdrop-saturate) var(--tw-backdrop-sepia); font-size: 18px; line-height: calc(28px * var(--body-fontHeight, 1)); font-weight: 400; font-family: Poppins, sans-serif;"><img id="h04l7grqxm0lu4kkq" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/530686149/photo/portrait-of-two-smiling-women-holding-files-and-talking-standing-in-crowded-lobby.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=zItPswC3H9z2g3UdqtSEH5hGbxIXEv7smg9hhcH1PAQ=" alt="Portrait of two smiling women holding files and talking, standing in crowded lobby" title="Portrait of two smiling women holding files and talking, standing in crowded lobby" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/530686149/photo/portrait-of-two-smiling-women-holding-files-and-talking-standing-in-crowded-lobby.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=zItPswC3H9z2g3UdqtSEH5hGbxIXEv7smg9hhcH1PAQ=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; 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--tw-invert: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-saturate: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-sepia: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-drop-shadow: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-backdrop-blur: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-backdrop-brightness: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-backdrop-contrast: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-backdrop-grayscale: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-backdrop-hue-rotate: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-backdrop-invert: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-backdrop-opacity: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-backdrop-saturate: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-backdrop-sepia: var(--tw-empty,/*!*/ /*!*/); --tw-transform: translateX(var(--tw-translate-x)) translateY(var(--tw-translate-y)) rotate(var(--tw-rotate)) skewX(var(--tw-skew-x)) skewY(var(--tw-skew-y)) scaleX(var(--tw-scale-x)) scaleY(var(--tw-scale-y)); --tw-border-opacity: 1; --tw-filter: var(--tw-blur) var(--tw-brightness) var(--tw-contrast) var(--tw-grayscale) var(--tw-hue-rotate) var(--tw-invert) var(--tw-saturate) var(--tw-sepia) var(--tw-drop-shadow); --tw-backdrop-filter: var(--tw-backdrop-blur) var(--tw-backdrop-brightness) var(--tw-backdrop-contrast) var(--tw-backdrop-grayscale) var(--tw-backdrop-hue-rotate) var(--tw-backdrop-invert) var(--tw-backdrop-opacity) var(--tw-backdrop-saturate) var(--tw-backdrop-sepia); --tw-bg-opacity: 1; width: 640px; aspect-ratio: 16 / 9; object-position: center center;">1. Define Your Long-Term Professional GoalsBefore you start connecting with people, take the time to clearly define your long-term career aspirations. What are your ambitions? What roles or industries do you envision yourself in?2. Identify Your INPsOnce you know your goals, identify the Ideal Network Personas of people who can help you achieve them. These could be:Mentors: Seasoned professionals who can offer guidance and insights. Sponsors: Influential individuals who can advocate for you within their organizations. Peers: Colleagues at a similar career level who can share knowledge and opportunities. Industry Leaders: Thought leaders and experts in your field.3. Develop Your 'INP-Focused' Networking Plan Now that you know who your INPs are, develop a strategic plan to identify and connect with them: Research and Identify Specific Individuals: Use platforms like LinkedIn, industry events, and professional associations to find people who fit your INP criteria.Craft Personalized Outreach: Tailor your connection requests and messages to highlight the value you can offer and how you align with their interests.Nurture Relationships Authentically: Focus on building genuine relationships by providing value, sharing insights, and offering support. Leverage Your Existing Network: Ask colleagues, friends, and mentors for introductions to people in your target network. <figure id="figure-n69ve9l38nm0ludxfb"><img id="n69ve9l38nm0ludxfb" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1537511446984-935f663eb1f4?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1Mnx8Q2FyZWVyJTIwQ29hY2hpbmd8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzA2ODc5ODExfDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="man using smartphone on chair" title="man using smartphone on chair" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1537511446984-935f663eb1f4?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1Mnx8Q2FyZWVyJTIwQ29hY2hpbmd8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzA2ODc5ODExfDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>The Exchange of ValueRemember, all networking is based on the exchange of value. Identify what unique contributions you can make to your INPs and also consider what they can contribute to your professional growth. Keeping it value-based ensures that your relationships are mutually beneficial and sustainable.ConclusionMid-career professionals can leverage the power of intentional networking to accelerate their growth and open doors to new opportunities. By following the INP framework and focusing on building genuine, value-based relationships, you can create a powerful network that supports your long-term career aspirations.Remember, networking is an ongoing process. Invest time in nurturing your relationships and pay it forward by helping others in your network. As you grow, so will the value and impact of your network.Additional Tips:Become a Connector: Connect like-minded people in your network and facilitate introductions.Be Patient and Persistent: Building a strong network takes time and effort. Don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate results.

Networking with Purpose: The INP Framework for Mid-Career Success

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<h2>Identifying Roadblocks</h2>Career roadblocks can appear in many forms. They can be internal, like self-doubt, or external, like a lack of opportunities. The first step to overcoming these roadblocks is to identify them. Take some time to reflect on what’s holding you back. Are there same thoughts you pull you back? Do you feel stuck in a particular role?Once you have identified your roadblocks, you can start to address them. Write them down and prioritize them. This will help you to create a plan to tackle each issue. A lot of times you find yourself in weeds and are not able to see the bigger picture. Don't hesitate to talk to mentor/coach, these 30 minutes with coach can help you to see the bigger picture.<figure id="figure-8b0xlhl5islzugq4fc"><img id="8b0xlhl5islzugq4fc" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1520333789090-1afc82db536a?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw3Mnx8Q2FyZWVyJTIwQ29hY2hpbmd8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzA2ODk4MTk0fDA&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="woman in white shirt using smartphone" title="woman in white shirt using smartphone" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="null" data-positionY="null" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>Goal setting! Create Specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals. For example, if you want to gain a new skill, set a deadline for when you will complete a course or certification.Break down your big goals into smaller, manageable steps. This will make them less overwhelming and more achievable.&nbsp;If you want to do this together with one of our coaches, register your interest <a title="Goal Setting Webinar and resources" href="https://forms.gle/ZfD32E5RDJBtNDQp9" target="_blank" data-mce-href="https://forms.gle/ZfD32E5RDJBtNDQp9" rel="noopener">in this form</a> and will send you the goal setting webinar video and some useful resources.&nbsp;<h3>Creating a Plan</h3>With your goals in place, the next step is to create a plan. Outline the steps you need to take to achieve each goal. This could include actions like networking, gaining new skills, or seeking mentorship.Having a plan will give you a clear path to follow and help you stay focused on your objectives.<figure id="figure-tssxq7jsuplzugq7he"><img id="tssxq7jsuplzugq7he" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1617106399900-61a7561d1d2f?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMXx8Z29hbC1wbGFubmluZ3xlbnwwfHx8fDE3MjM2NzY5MTB8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="goal-planning" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1617106399900-61a7561d1d2f?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMXx8Z29hbC1wbGFubmluZ3xlbnwwfHx8fDE3MjM2NzY5MTB8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure>Don’t be afraid to reach out to people for advice or mentorship. Many professionals are willing to share their experiences and help others succeed.<h3>Seeking Professional Help</h3>Sometimes, overcoming career roadblocks requires professional help. Career coaches can provide guidance, support, and strategies tailored to your specific situation. They can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and develop a plan to achieve your goals.Investing in professional help can be a worthwhile step towards overcoming your career challenges.<figure id="figure-af12necnyflzugq8w3"><img id="af12necnyflzugq8w3" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1459499362902-55a20553e082?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMXx8Y2FyZWVyLWNvYWNofGVufDB8fHx8MTcyMzY3NjkxMXww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="career-coach" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1459499362902-55a20553e082?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMXx8Y2FyZWVyLWNvYWNofGVufDB8fHx8MTcyMzY3NjkxMXww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure>Remember that setbacks are a natural part of the journey. Learn from them and use them as opportunities to grow and improve.<h3>Continuously Learning and Adapting</h3>The job market is constantly evolving, and staying relevant requires continuous learning and adaptation. Keep yourself updated with the latest trends in your industry and be open to acquiring new skills.Embrace change and be willing to adapt to new situations. This will make you more resilient and better equipped to overcome future roadblocks.<figure id="figure-juu1pbddz9lzugqapk"><img id="juu1pbddz9lzugqapk" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1596496181848-3091d4878b24?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMnx8Y29udGludW91cy1sZWFybmluZ3xlbnwwfHx8fDE3MjM2NzY5MTR8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="continuous-learning" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1596496181848-3091d4878b24?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMnx8Y29udGludW91cy1sZWFybmluZ3xlbnwwfHx8fDE3MjM2NzY5MTR8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure>

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Networking with Purpose: The INP Framework for Mid-Career...

Overcoming Career Roadblocks: Your Step-by-Step Guide