February 15, 2025 • 24 mins
The Power of Career Pivots – The Mid-Career Makeover Show
Sponsored by Get a Better Job Career Branding (getabetterjob.work)
🔹 Introduction
This episode is all about one of the most transformative career moves: the career pivot. Whether you're shifting industries, exploring a passion, or redefining your professional path, this episode will equip you with the inspiration, strategies, and mindset shifts needed to take the leap.
🔹 What is a Career Pivot?
A career pivot is a strategic shift in your professional direction that leverages your existing skills and experiences. It’s not about starting over but rather repurposing your strengths to align with new opportunities that fit your evolving goals. Like a basketball move, you keep one foot grounded while changing directions toward a better career fit.
🔹 The Rise of AI and the Need to Pivot
With AI rapidly transforming industries, the skills that got you here may not be enough to keep you competitive. The good news? A pivot can position you in future-focused industries like AI ethics, data analysis, or digital marketing. Whether upskilling in tech or creatively integrating AI into your field, embracing change keeps you ahead of the curve.
🔹 Real-Life Pivot Success Stories
- Chris Donovan – From telephone repairman to high-end shoe designer in his 50s.
- Julia Child – Discovered her love for cooking in her mid-30s and became a culinary icon.
- Mark Cuban – Went from bartender to billionaire entrepreneur by embracing opportunities.
- Howard Schultz – Transformed Starbucks from a small coffee company into a global brand.
These stories prove that it's never too late to pivot into something extraordinary!
🔹 A Personal Story of Pivoting
Host LaVonne McIver James shares her own journey from public relations to career branding. By recognizing her transferable skills in storytelling and messaging, she built a fulfilling career helping mid-career professionals craft their personal brands. Her pivot wasn’t about starting over—it was about refining her purpose.
🔹 Your Breakthrough Moment
Mid-career is your turning point. Take that first step:
✨ Enroll in a class
✨ Reach out to a mentor
✨ Start a side hustle
Success isn’t about having it all figured out—it’s about taking action.
🔹 Final Takeaway
You are more capable than you realize, and the best chapters of your career are ahead of you. Don’t let fear keep you stagnant—embrace your pivot, take bold action, and own your success!
Get Your Copy of "Think Like a Leader to Build a Career Brand That Accelerates Your Success"
Available on Amazon—your guide to standing out and taking control of your career.
🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs a nudge to pivot!
For more career inspiration, visit yourbreakthrough.app
Thank you for listening! For more information on mid-career transformation, visit AI4CareerSuccess.com. Connect with me on LinkedIn.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
SPEAKER_02 (00:00):
Episode three The Power of Career Pivots This day
is too late now The Your shinesbehind ya But wisdom's in your
gaze Passion on fire You've gotstories to tell And dreams to
(00:27):
inspire Rise above the noiseTake your place high This
episode is sponsored by Get aBetter Job Career Branding In a
world where first impressionsare made in the blink of an eye
Your resume is more than just apiece of paper.
SPEAKER_03 (00:48):
It's your story, your brand, your future.
Imagine a resume that doesn'tjust list your experiences, but
brings them to life.
A resume that doesn't whisper,but shouts your potential from
the rooftops.
Get a Better Job invites you tothe visual resume evolution, a
movement where your career storyunfolds with color, design, and
(01:09):
undeniable passion.
You have the power to redefinethe standard, to turn the tide
in your favor.
With Get a Better Job, everyline, every graphic, every bold
choice marks a step towards yourdestiny.
Don't wait.
Elevate your career path today.
With Get a Better Job, be seen,be memorable, and yes, get
(01:30):
hired.
Your next chapter starts here,and it's nothing short of
extraordinary.
SPEAKER_04 (01:41):
For more information on Get a Better Job, visit
getabetterjob.org.
SPEAKER_00 (01:46):
Are you ready to break through the noise and
build a career that trulyreflects your potential?
In How to Think Like a Leader toBuild a Career brand that
accelerates your success, LevonMcKyver James shares the proven
strategies behind her brandbreakthrough system.
Learn how to think like aleader, craft your unique value
proposition, and tell a storythat commands attention.
Whether you're looking to standout in your current role or land
(02:08):
your next big opportunity, thisbook is your guide to taking
control of your career and yourfuture.
Don't wait for success to findyou.
Create it.
Get your copy of How to ThinkLike a Leader to Build a Career
Brand that Accelerates YourSuccess Today, and start
building the brand and life youdeserve available on Amazon.
SPEAKER_04 (02:27):
Welcome to this week's episode of the Mid-Career
Makeover Show, where we'retalking about one of the most
transformative career moves youcan make, a pivot.
Whether you're contemplating ashift into a new industry,
exploring a side passion, orcompletely redefining your
professional path, today'sepisode is for you.
You'll hear inspiring stories ofbold career moves, explore
(02:49):
practical strategies for makinga pivot, and address the fears
that might be holding you back.
So let's dive in.
What is a career pivot, you ask?
A career pivot is a deliberateand strategic change in your
professional direction,typically involving a shift to a
different role, industry, orarea of expertise.
(03:11):
Unlike starting a career fromscratch, a pivot leverages your
existing skills, experiences,and strengths while aligning
them with new opportunities thatbetter suit your evolving goals,
values, or interests.
It's like a basketball move,you're staying grounded on one
foot, your foundation, whilechanging the direction of your
(03:33):
career to aim for a new goal,the basket.
It's about finding transferableskills and repurposing them in a
way that allows you to succeedin a new context.
Think of it this way (03:45):
you're not abandoning your career, but
building on what you've alreadyaccomplished.
A pivot involves identifyingtransferable skills that apply
to your new direction.
Often, career pivots are drivenby a desire to find work that
aligns more closely with yourpersonal values, passions, or
(04:05):
lifestyle changes.
It's a chance to step intosomething more fulfilling,
challenging, or exciting.
A career pivot is a courageousstep toward redefining your
professional identity.
It's about seizing theopportunity to grow and create a
career that truly resonates withwho you are and what you want.
(05:02):
So if you've been thinking aboutmaking a change, you're not
alone.
One of the most significantdrivers of pivots today is the
rise of artificial intelligence.
AI is transforming industries atan unprecedented pace.
For many mid-careerprofessionals, this means the
skills that got you here may notbe enough to keep you employed
(05:24):
or competitive.
But here's the good news a pivotcan be your chance to adapt and
stay ahead of the curve.
Think about roles like dataanalysis, digital marketing, or
AI ethics consultants.
These didn't even exist a decadeago.
Embracing change can help youposition yourself in exciting,
(05:45):
future-focused industry.
If you're already in atech-heavy role, you might need
to specialize further or upskillin areas like machine learning
or cloud computing.
For those in creative fields, AItools can enhance what you do
rather than replace it, givingyou more ways to express your
ideas.
With industries changing rapidlydue to technology,
(06:07):
globalization, and shiftingeconomic priorities, the idea of
staying in one career for lifefeels outdated.
Pivoting allows you to grow,evolve, and align your work with
your passions and values.
But let's be real, pivoting canfeel scary.
Maybe you're worried aboutstarting over, facing financial
(06:28):
risks, or dealing with judgmentfrom your peers or family.
These fears are natural, butthey're also manageable.
Here's an example that mightinspire you.
Did you know that Vera Wangdidn't design her first wedding
dress until she was 40?
Before that, she was a figureskater and journalist.
(06:49):
Her story proves that it's nevertoo late to pursue your passion.
Take a moment to reflect.
If you could start any careertomorrow, what would it be?
SPEAKER_00 (06:59):
Think about it.
Are you ready to break throughthe noise and build a career
that truly reflects yourpotential?
In how to think like a leader tobuild a career brand that
accelerates your success, LevonMcKyver James shares the proven
strategies behind her brandbreakthrough system.
Learn how to think like aleader, craft your unique value
proposition, and tell a storythat commands attention.
(07:20):
Whether you're looking to standout in your current role or land
your next big opportunity, thisbook is your guide to taking
control of your career and yourfuture.
Don't wait for success to findyou.
Create it.
Get your copy of How to ThinkLike a Leader to Build a Career
Brand that Accelerates YourSuccess Today, and start
building the brand and life youdeserve available on Amazon.
SPEAKER_03 (07:42):
In a world where first impressions are made in
the blink of an eye, your resumeis more than just a piece of
paper.
It's your story, your brand,your future.
Imagine a resume that doesn'tjust list your experiences, but
brings them to life.
A resume that doesn't whisperbut shouts your potential from
the rooftops.
Get a Better Job invites you tothe visual resume evolution, a
(08:06):
movement where your career storyunfolds with color, design, and
undeniable passion.
You have the power to redefinethe standard, to turn the tide
in your favor.
With Get a Better Job, everyline, every graphic, every bold
choice marks a step towards yourdestiny.
Don't wait.
Elevate your career path today.
(08:26):
With Get a Better Job, be seen,be memorable, and yes, get
hired.
Your next chapter starts here,and it's nothing short of
extraordinary.
SPEAKER_04 (08:42):
To learn more about Get a Better Job, visit
getabetterjob.org.
Now let's dive into some reallife stories of people who made
bold career pivots and foundincredible success.
Take Chris Donovan, a formertelephone repair man who always
had a passion for sketchingshoes.
(09:04):
In his 50s, he took a leap offaith and enrolled in design
school.
Today his high-end shoe designsare celebrated globally.
Chris's story shows us that it'snever too late to follow your
creative passions.
Then there's Julia Child.
She worked in advertising andmedia for years before
discovering her love for cookingin her mid-30s.
She enrolled at Le Cordon Bleuin Paris, and the rest is
(09:27):
history.
Her pivot transformed her lifeand inspired millions of
aspiring chefs.
And how about Mark Cuban?
Before becoming the billionaireentrepreneur we know today, Mark
worked as a bartender and asoftware salesperson.
His pivot into technology andentrepreneurship came from a
combination of curiosity, hardwork, and recognizing
(09:47):
opportunities others didn't.
Each of these stories highlightssomething important.
Whether it's leveraging existingskills, following a passion, or
embracing curiosity, there aremultiple paths to a successful
pivot.
For me, one of the most excitingaspects of a career pivot is the
chance to finally pursue yourpassion.
(10:08):
For many people, the idea ofdoing what they love feels like
a dream.
But a well-designed pivot canturn that dream into reality.
What's something you've alwaysbeen drawn to?
Something that lights you up,whether it's writing, helping
others, creating art, orbuilding things, I have found
(10:29):
that my clients often have apassion waiting to be pursued.
A pivot gives you permission tostep away from what's familiar
and move toward what trulyexcites you.
One great example is HowardSchultz, who left his job in
sales to join a small coffeecompany called Starbucks.
Schultz had a vision for whatStarbucks could become, and his
passion for community and coffeeturned the company into the
(10:51):
global brand we know today.
The beauty of pursuing yourpassion is that it doesn't just
change your work, it changesyour entire outlook on life.
When you're aligned with yourpassion, work feels more like
purpose.
The energy and creativity thatcome from doing what you love
can be transformative.
If you're listening right nowand feeling like your current
(11:11):
job doesn't align with yourpassion, I want you to know it's
never too late.
Start small, take a class, joina community, or dedicate time to
your passion outside of work.
These small steps can lead tosomething incredible.
SPEAKER_00 (11:26):
Are you ready to break through the noise and
build a career that trulyreflects your potential?
In how to think like a leader tobuild a career brand that
accelerates your success, LevonMcKyver James shares the proven
strategies behind her brandbreakthrough system.
Learn how to think like aleader, craft your unique value
proposition, and tell a storythat commands attention.
Whether you're looking to standout in your current role or land
(11:48):
your next big opportunity, thisbook is your guide to taking
control of your career and yourfuture.
Don't wait for success to findyou.
Create it.
Get your copy of How to ThinkLike a Leader to Build a Career
Brand that Accelerates YourSuccess Today, and start
building the brand and life youdeserve.
Available on Amazon.
SPEAKER_04 (12:38):
A story about my own career pivot.
I transitioned from publicrelations to career branding,
and it's been a journey full ofgrowth, challenges, and
ultimately a lot of fulfillment.
It's a story that's close to myheart because it represents the
power of transferable skills andfinding your true calling.
Now, I know career pivots cansound daunting, but I'm here to
(13:01):
show you that with the rightmindset and strategy, they can
lead to incredibleopportunities.
It all started with myfoundation in public relations.
In PR.
You're essentially astoryteller, right?
You help brands craft compellingnarratives, build relationships,
and establish trust.
It's all about presenting theright message to the right
(13:21):
audience.
That's something I absolutelyloved, and it's something I've
carried with me throughout myentire career.
But like many people, lifechanged.
I decided to step away from myPR career to focus on raising my
family.
During that time, I really hadthe chance to reflect on my
skills and where I wanted to gonext.
(13:42):
While I was teaching businesswriting at the college level, I
realized something huge.
I had the opportunity to teachmy students how to write
resumes, cover letters, andcreate digital portfolios.
And here's the thing (13:53):
watching them land jobs after
implementing what I taught themwas incredibly rewarding.
That sparked a new passion inme.
I wanted to help people presentthemselves with confidence, just
like I had helped my students.
I realized that all those skillsI had developed in PR, crafting
messages, building brandawareness, and telling
(14:16):
compelling stories could beapplied in a whole new way.
Instead of helping companiesposition themselves, I could
help individuals positionthemselves, their careers, their
value, their story.
And that's when I made thedecision to pivot into career
branding.
It wasn't just about changingcareers, it was about redefining
(14:37):
my purpose.
I wanted to empower people torecognize their own worth and
help them tell their careerstories in a way that captured
their potential.
So I started coaching mid-careerprofessionals, helping them
craft their unique valuepropositions and build their
personal brands.
I used the same storytellingtechniques that made me
(14:57):
successful in PR.
But this time I was helpingindividuals get seen, get heard,
and ultimately get hired.
Today, I'm lucky enough to workwith amazing clients, helping
them create careers that trulyreflect their skills, passions,
and potential.
(15:17):
And let me tell you, there'snothing more fulfilling than
watching someone step into theirfull career potential.
If you're feeling stuck orunsure about where you're headed
in your career, remember that apivot doesn't mean starting from
scratch.
It means building on everythingyou've already done and using it
(15:38):
to create something even biggerand better.
So if I can do it, you can do ittoo.
SPEAKER_03 (15:44):
In a world where first impressions are made in
the blink of an eye, your resumeis more than just a piece of
paper.
It's your story, your brand,your future.
Imagine a resume that doesn'tjust list your experiences, but
brings them to life.
A resume that doesn't whisperbut shouts your potential from
the rooftops.
Get a Better Job invites you tothe visual resume evolution, a
(16:08):
movement where your career storyunfolds with color, design, and
undeniable passion.
You have the power to redefinethe standard, to turn the tide
in your favor.
With Get a Better Job, everyline, every graphic, every bold
choice marks a step towards yourdestiny.
Don't wait.
Elevate your career path today.
(16:28):
With Get a Better Job, be seen,be memorable, and yes, get
hired.
Your next chapter starts here,and it's nothing short of
extraordinary.
SPEAKER_04 (16:44):
To learn more about Get a Better Job Career
Branding, visitgetabetterjob.org.
A successful career pivot oftenstarts with the right mindset.
It's not just about having aplan, it's about believing in
your ability to adapt andthrive.
One essential mindset shift isembracing curiosity.
(17:04):
Instead of thinking, what if Ifail?
Try asking, what could I learnfrom this experience?
Viewing your pivot as a journeyrather than a destination can
help you stay open topossibilities and reduce the
pressure to have everythingfigured out right away.
Resilience is another criticalpiece.
Pivoting often comes withsetbacks, but those setbacks are
(17:25):
opportunities to grow.
Consider JK Rowling.
Before becoming a best-sellingauthor, she faced rejection from
multiple publishers.
Her resilience and belief in herstory kept her moving forward.
And today she's an inspirationto millions.
You'll also need to cultivateself-compassion.
(17:46):
It's easy to be hard on yourselfduring times of transition,
especially if progress feelsslow.
Remember, pivots take time.
Celebrate small wins along theway, and don't compare your
beginning to someone else'smiddle.
Of course, no pivot is withoutits challenges, but you can
overcome them.
I find that some of my clientsfear the financial risk of
(18:09):
pivoting, and that makes sense.
Before making a leap, most of ushave to create a financial
cushion and even consider a sidehustle to supplement our income.
And then there are the skeptics.
You know, the people who crushyour dream before you even get
started.
Sometimes family, friends, oreven coworkers won't understand
(18:31):
your vision.
But really, their doubts oftenstem from their own fears or
lack of understanding, not yourability.
Here's how to handle them.
First, focus on your why.
Be clear about why this pivotmatters to you and what you hope
to achieve.
When you're anchored in yourpurpose, it's easier to stay
confident.
(18:51):
Second, share your visionselectively.
Not everyone needs to know yourplans, especially in the early
stages.
Share with those who aresupportive or have valuable
insights.
Third, find your tribe.
Surround yourself with peoplewho believe in your potential
and encourage you to pursue yourgoals.
(19:13):
Join communities, attend events,and connect with mentors who
have made similar pivots.
Remember that your successdoesn't require everyone's
approval.
Trust your own journey.
It's yours.
And guess what?
It doesn't have to look likeanyone else's.
SPEAKER_00 (19:30):
Are you ready to break through the noise and
build a career that trulyreflects your potential?
In how to think like a leader tobuild a career brand that
accelerates your success, LevonMcKyver James shares the proven
strategies behind her brandbreakthrough system.
Learn how to think like aleader, craft your unique value
proposition, and tell a storythat commands attention.
Whether you're looking to standout in your current role or land
(19:52):
your next big opportunity, thisbook is your guide to taking
control of your career and yourfuture.
Don't wait for success to findyou.
Create it.
Get your copy of How to ThinkLike a Leader to Build a Career
Brand that Accelerates YourSuccess Today, and start
building the brand and life youdeserve.
Available on Amazon.
SPEAKER_04 (20:51):
It's a turning point, a chance to pivot towards
something extraordinary.
It's your opportunity toredefine success on your terms.
I want you to imagine waking upeach morning excited about what
lies ahead.
Picture yourself not just doinga job, but living out a purpose
that resonates with who you are.
(21:13):
That reality isn't reserved forsomeone else.
It's within your reach.
You just have to take that firststep.
Think about Howard Schultz, whosaw more than a coffee shop in
Starbucks.
He saw a community.
Or J.K.
Rowling, who wrote her firstHarry Potter book as a single
mom on welfare.
(21:33):
Or me, who pivoted from publicrelations to career branding
with nothing but my belief inthe power of storytelling to
help others.
We all had no guarantees, onlyour belief in what could be.
You too have the potential topivot and create something
remarkable.
Here's the truth.
You don't need to have it allfigured out to begin.
(21:55):
Small steps lead to bigtransformations.
Enroll in a class, reach out toa mentor, start a side hustle.
Each action you take brings youcloser to your pivot.
Mid-career is your turningpoint, your chance to dream big,
take bold action, and own yoursuccess.
Don't let fear or inertia holdyou back.
(22:17):
You are capable of more than yourealize, and the best chapters
of your career are still aheadof you.
SPEAKER_03 (22:24):
In a world where first impressions are made in
the blink of an eye, your resumeis more than just a piece of
paper.
It's your story, your brand,your future.
Imagine a resume that doesn'tjust list your experiences, but
brings them to life.
A resume that doesn't whisperbut shouts your potential from
the rooftops.
Get a Better Job invites you tothe visual resume evolution, a
(22:48):
movement where your career storyunfolds with color, design, and
undeniable passion.
You have the power to redefinethe standard, to turn the tide
in your favor.
With Get a Better Job, everyline, every graphic, every bold
choice marks a step towards yourdestiny.
Don't wait.
Elevate your career path today.
(23:08):
With Get a Better Job, be seen,be memorable, and yes, get
hired.
Your next chapter starts here,and it's nothing short of
extraordinary.
SPEAKER_04 (23:24):
To learn more about Get a Better Job, visit
getabetterjob.org.
The biggest risk is not takingany risk at all.
That's a quote from MarkZuckerberg.
And it's a powerful reminderthat staying stagnant is often
riskier than trying somethingnew.
Today, I challenge you to takeone actionable step toward your
(23:45):
pivot.
Research a new industry, updateyour resume, or reach out to
someone in your network whoinspires you.
Thank you for tuning in to theMid Career Makeover Show.
If you enjoyed today's episode,please subscribe, leave a
review, and share it withsomeone who might need a little
nudge to pivot.
Remember, you're here becauseyou're ready to grow.
(24:06):
And that's an incredible firststep.
Until next time, dream big, takebold action, and own your
success because the best is yetto come.
Episode three The Power of Career Pivots This day
is too late now The Your shinesbehind ya But wisdom's in your
gaze Passion on fire You've gotstories to tell And dreams to
(00:27):
inspire Rise above the noiseTake your place high This
episode is sponsored by Get aBetter Job Career Branding In a
world where first impressionsare made in the blink of an eye
Your resume is more than just apiece of paper.
SPEAKER_03 (00:48):
It's your story, your brand, your future.
Imagine a resume that doesn'tjust list your experiences, but
brings them to life.
A resume that doesn't whisper,but shouts your potential from
the rooftops.
Get a Better Job invites you tothe visual resume evolution, a
movement where your career storyunfolds with color, design, and
(01:09):
undeniable passion.
You have the power to redefinethe standard, to turn the tide
in your favor.
With Get a Better Job, everyline, every graphic, every bold
choice marks a step towards yourdestiny.
Don't wait.
Elevate your career path today.
With Get a Better Job, be seen,be memorable, and yes, get
(01:30):
hired.
Your next chapter starts here,and it's nothing short of
extraordinary.
SPEAKER_04 (01:41):
For more information on Get a Better Job, visit
getabetterjob.org.
SPEAKER_00 (01:46):
Are you ready to break through the noise and
build a career that trulyreflects your potential?
In How to Think Like a Leader toBuild a Career brand that
accelerates your success, LevonMcKyver James shares the proven
strategies behind her brandbreakthrough system.
Learn how to think like aleader, craft your unique value
proposition, and tell a storythat commands attention.
Whether you're looking to standout in your current role or land
(02:08):
your next big opportunity, thisbook is your guide to taking
control of your career and yourfuture.
Don't wait for success to findyou.
Create it.
Get your copy of How to ThinkLike a Leader to Build a Career
Brand that Accelerates YourSuccess Today, and start
building the brand and life youdeserve available on Amazon.
SPEAKER_04 (02:27):
Welcome to this week's episode of the Mid-Career
Makeover Show, where we'retalking about one of the most
transformative career moves youcan make, a pivot.
Whether you're contemplating ashift into a new industry,
exploring a side passion, orcompletely redefining your
professional path, today'sepisode is for you.
You'll hear inspiring stories ofbold career moves, explore
(02:49):
practical strategies for makinga pivot, and address the fears
that might be holding you back.
So let's dive in.
What is a career pivot, you ask?
A career pivot is a deliberateand strategic change in your
professional direction,typically involving a shift to a
different role, industry, orarea of expertise.
(03:11):
Unlike starting a career fromscratch, a pivot leverages your
existing skills, experiences,and strengths while aligning
them with new opportunities thatbetter suit your evolving goals,
values, or interests.
It's like a basketball move,you're staying grounded on one
foot, your foundation, whilechanging the direction of your
(03:33):
career to aim for a new goal,the basket.
It's about finding transferableskills and repurposing them in a
way that allows you to succeedin a new context.
Think of it this way (03:45):
you're not abandoning your career, but
building on what you've alreadyaccomplished.
A pivot involves identifyingtransferable skills that apply
to your new direction.
Often, career pivots are drivenby a desire to find work that
aligns more closely with yourpersonal values, passions, or
(04:05):
lifestyle changes.
It's a chance to step intosomething more fulfilling,
challenging, or exciting.
A career pivot is a courageousstep toward redefining your
professional identity.
It's about seizing theopportunity to grow and create a
career that truly resonates withwho you are and what you want.
(05:02):
So if you've been thinking aboutmaking a change, you're not
alone.
One of the most significantdrivers of pivots today is the
rise of artificial intelligence.
AI is transforming industries atan unprecedented pace.
For many mid-careerprofessionals, this means the
skills that got you here may notbe enough to keep you employed
(05:24):
or competitive.
But here's the good news a pivotcan be your chance to adapt and
stay ahead of the curve.
Think about roles like dataanalysis, digital marketing, or
AI ethics consultants.
These didn't even exist a decadeago.
Embracing change can help youposition yourself in exciting,
(05:45):
future-focused industry.
If you're already in atech-heavy role, you might need
to specialize further or upskillin areas like machine learning
or cloud computing.
For those in creative fields, AItools can enhance what you do
rather than replace it, givingyou more ways to express your
ideas.
With industries changing rapidlydue to technology,
(06:07):
globalization, and shiftingeconomic priorities, the idea of
staying in one career for lifefeels outdated.
Pivoting allows you to grow,evolve, and align your work with
your passions and values.
But let's be real, pivoting canfeel scary.
Maybe you're worried aboutstarting over, facing financial
(06:28):
risks, or dealing with judgmentfrom your peers or family.
These fears are natural, butthey're also manageable.
Here's an example that mightinspire you.
Did you know that Vera Wangdidn't design her first wedding
dress until she was 40?
Before that, she was a figureskater and journalist.
(06:49):
Her story proves that it's nevertoo late to pursue your passion.
Take a moment to reflect.
If you could start any careertomorrow, what would it be?
SPEAKER_00 (06:59):
Think about it.
Are you ready to break throughthe noise and build a career
that truly reflects yourpotential?
In how to think like a leader tobuild a career brand that
accelerates your success, LevonMcKyver James shares the proven
strategies behind her brandbreakthrough system.
Learn how to think like aleader, craft your unique value
proposition, and tell a storythat commands attention.
(07:20):
Whether you're looking to standout in your current role or land
your next big opportunity, thisbook is your guide to taking
control of your career and yourfuture.
Don't wait for success to findyou.
Create it.
Get your copy of How to ThinkLike a Leader to Build a Career
Brand that Accelerates YourSuccess Today, and start
building the brand and life youdeserve available on Amazon.
SPEAKER_03 (07:42):
In a world where first impressions are made in
the blink of an eye, your resumeis more than just a piece of
paper.
It's your story, your brand,your future.
Imagine a resume that doesn'tjust list your experiences, but
brings them to life.
A resume that doesn't whisperbut shouts your potential from
the rooftops.
Get a Better Job invites you tothe visual resume evolution, a
(08:06):
movement where your career storyunfolds with color, design, and
undeniable passion.
You have the power to redefinethe standard, to turn the tide
in your favor.
With Get a Better Job, everyline, every graphic, every bold
choice marks a step towards yourdestiny.
Don't wait.
Elevate your career path today.
(08:26):
With Get a Better Job, be seen,be memorable, and yes, get
hired.
Your next chapter starts here,and it's nothing short of
extraordinary.
SPEAKER_04 (08:42):
To learn more about Get a Better Job, visit
getabetterjob.org.
Now let's dive into some reallife stories of people who made
bold career pivots and foundincredible success.
Take Chris Donovan, a formertelephone repair man who always
had a passion for sketchingshoes.
(09:04):
In his 50s, he took a leap offaith and enrolled in design
school.
Today his high-end shoe designsare celebrated globally.
Chris's story shows us that it'snever too late to follow your
creative passions.
Then there's Julia Child.
She worked in advertising andmedia for years before
discovering her love for cookingin her mid-30s.
She enrolled at Le Cordon Bleuin Paris, and the rest is
(09:27):
history.
Her pivot transformed her lifeand inspired millions of
aspiring chefs.
And how about Mark Cuban?
Before becoming the billionaireentrepreneur we know today, Mark
worked as a bartender and asoftware salesperson.
His pivot into technology andentrepreneurship came from a
combination of curiosity, hardwork, and recognizing
(09:47):
opportunities others didn't.
Each of these stories highlightssomething important.
Whether it's leveraging existingskills, following a passion, or
embracing curiosity, there aremultiple paths to a successful
pivot.
For me, one of the most excitingaspects of a career pivot is the
chance to finally pursue yourpassion.
(10:08):
For many people, the idea ofdoing what they love feels like
a dream.
But a well-designed pivot canturn that dream into reality.
What's something you've alwaysbeen drawn to?
Something that lights you up,whether it's writing, helping
others, creating art, orbuilding things, I have found
(10:29):
that my clients often have apassion waiting to be pursued.
A pivot gives you permission tostep away from what's familiar
and move toward what trulyexcites you.
One great example is HowardSchultz, who left his job in
sales to join a small coffeecompany called Starbucks.
Schultz had a vision for whatStarbucks could become, and his
passion for community and coffeeturned the company into the
(10:51):
global brand we know today.
The beauty of pursuing yourpassion is that it doesn't just
change your work, it changesyour entire outlook on life.
When you're aligned with yourpassion, work feels more like
purpose.
The energy and creativity thatcome from doing what you love
can be transformative.
If you're listening right nowand feeling like your current
(11:11):
job doesn't align with yourpassion, I want you to know it's
never too late.
Start small, take a class, joina community, or dedicate time to
your passion outside of work.
These small steps can lead tosomething incredible.
SPEAKER_00 (11:26):
Are you ready to break through the noise and
build a career that trulyreflects your potential?
In how to think like a leader tobuild a career brand that
accelerates your success, LevonMcKyver James shares the proven
strategies behind her brandbreakthrough system.
Learn how to think like aleader, craft your unique value
proposition, and tell a storythat commands attention.
Whether you're looking to standout in your current role or land
(11:48):
your next big opportunity, thisbook is your guide to taking
control of your career and yourfuture.
Don't wait for success to findyou.
Create it.
Get your copy of How to ThinkLike a Leader to Build a Career
Brand that Accelerates YourSuccess Today, and start
building the brand and life youdeserve.
Available on Amazon.
SPEAKER_04 (12:38):
A story about my own career pivot.
I transitioned from publicrelations to career branding,
and it's been a journey full ofgrowth, challenges, and
ultimately a lot of fulfillment.
It's a story that's close to myheart because it represents the
power of transferable skills andfinding your true calling.
Now, I know career pivots cansound daunting, but I'm here to
(13:01):
show you that with the rightmindset and strategy, they can
lead to incredibleopportunities.
It all started with myfoundation in public relations.
In PR.
You're essentially astoryteller, right?
You help brands craft compellingnarratives, build relationships,
and establish trust.
It's all about presenting theright message to the right
(13:21):
audience.
That's something I absolutelyloved, and it's something I've
carried with me throughout myentire career.
But like many people, lifechanged.
I decided to step away from myPR career to focus on raising my
family.
During that time, I really hadthe chance to reflect on my
skills and where I wanted to gonext.
(13:42):
While I was teaching businesswriting at the college level, I
realized something huge.
I had the opportunity to teachmy students how to write
resumes, cover letters, andcreate digital portfolios.
And here's the thing (13:53):
watching them land jobs after
implementing what I taught themwas incredibly rewarding.
That sparked a new passion inme.
I wanted to help people presentthemselves with confidence, just
like I had helped my students.
I realized that all those skillsI had developed in PR, crafting
messages, building brandawareness, and telling
(14:16):
compelling stories could beapplied in a whole new way.
Instead of helping companiesposition themselves, I could
help individuals positionthemselves, their careers, their
value, their story.
And that's when I made thedecision to pivot into career
branding.
It wasn't just about changingcareers, it was about redefining
(14:37):
my purpose.
I wanted to empower people torecognize their own worth and
help them tell their careerstories in a way that captured
their potential.
So I started coaching mid-careerprofessionals, helping them
craft their unique valuepropositions and build their
personal brands.
I used the same storytellingtechniques that made me
(14:57):
successful in PR.
But this time I was helpingindividuals get seen, get heard,
and ultimately get hired.
Today, I'm lucky enough to workwith amazing clients, helping
them create careers that trulyreflect their skills, passions,
and potential.
(15:17):
And let me tell you, there'snothing more fulfilling than
watching someone step into theirfull career potential.
If you're feeling stuck orunsure about where you're headed
in your career, remember that apivot doesn't mean starting from
scratch.
It means building on everythingyou've already done and using it
(15:38):
to create something even biggerand better.
So if I can do it, you can do ittoo.
SPEAKER_03 (15:44):
In a world where first impressions are made in
the blink of an eye, your resumeis more than just a piece of
paper.
It's your story, your brand,your future.
Imagine a resume that doesn'tjust list your experiences, but
brings them to life.
A resume that doesn't whisperbut shouts your potential from
the rooftops.
Get a Better Job invites you tothe visual resume evolution, a
(16:08):
movement where your career storyunfolds with color, design, and
undeniable passion.
You have the power to redefinethe standard, to turn the tide
in your favor.
With Get a Better Job, everyline, every graphic, every bold
choice marks a step towards yourdestiny.
Don't wait.
Elevate your career path today.
(16:28):
With Get a Better Job, be seen,be memorable, and yes, get
hired.
Your next chapter starts here,and it's nothing short of
extraordinary.
SPEAKER_04 (16:44):
To learn more about Get a Better Job Career
Branding, visitgetabetterjob.org.
A successful career pivot oftenstarts with the right mindset.
It's not just about having aplan, it's about believing in
your ability to adapt andthrive.
One essential mindset shift isembracing curiosity.
(17:04):
Instead of thinking, what if Ifail?
Try asking, what could I learnfrom this experience?
Viewing your pivot as a journeyrather than a destination can
help you stay open topossibilities and reduce the
pressure to have everythingfigured out right away.
Resilience is another criticalpiece.
Pivoting often comes withsetbacks, but those setbacks are
(17:25):
opportunities to grow.
Consider JK Rowling.
Before becoming a best-sellingauthor, she faced rejection from
multiple publishers.
Her resilience and belief in herstory kept her moving forward.
And today she's an inspirationto millions.
You'll also need to cultivateself-compassion.
(17:46):
It's easy to be hard on yourselfduring times of transition,
especially if progress feelsslow.
Remember, pivots take time.
Celebrate small wins along theway, and don't compare your
beginning to someone else'smiddle.
Of course, no pivot is withoutits challenges, but you can
overcome them.
I find that some of my clientsfear the financial risk of
(18:09):
pivoting, and that makes sense.
Before making a leap, most of ushave to create a financial
cushion and even consider a sidehustle to supplement our income.
And then there are the skeptics.
You know, the people who crushyour dream before you even get
started.
Sometimes family, friends, oreven coworkers won't understand
(18:31):
your vision.
But really, their doubts oftenstem from their own fears or
lack of understanding, not yourability.
Here's how to handle them.
First, focus on your why.
Be clear about why this pivotmatters to you and what you hope
to achieve.
When you're anchored in yourpurpose, it's easier to stay
confident.
(18:51):
Second, share your visionselectively.
Not everyone needs to know yourplans, especially in the early
stages.
Share with those who aresupportive or have valuable
insights.
Third, find your tribe.
Surround yourself with peoplewho believe in your potential
and encourage you to pursue yourgoals.
(19:13):
Join communities, attend events,and connect with mentors who
have made similar pivots.
Remember that your successdoesn't require everyone's
approval.
Trust your own journey.
It's yours.
And guess what?
It doesn't have to look likeanyone else's.
SPEAKER_00 (19:30):
Are you ready to break through the noise and
build a career that trulyreflects your potential?
In how to think like a leader tobuild a career brand that
accelerates your success, LevonMcKyver James shares the proven
strategies behind her brandbreakthrough system.
Learn how to think like aleader, craft your unique value
proposition, and tell a storythat commands attention.
Whether you're looking to standout in your current role or land
(19:52):
your next big opportunity, thisbook is your guide to taking
control of your career and yourfuture.
Don't wait for success to findyou.
Create it.
Get your copy of How to ThinkLike a Leader to Build a Career
Brand that Accelerates YourSuccess Today, and start
building the brand and life youdeserve.
Available on Amazon.
SPEAKER_04 (20:51):
It's a turning point, a chance to pivot towards
something extraordinary.
It's your opportunity toredefine success on your terms.
I want you to imagine waking upeach morning excited about what
lies ahead.
Picture yourself not just doinga job, but living out a purpose
that resonates with who you are.
(21:13):
That reality isn't reserved forsomeone else.
It's within your reach.
You just have to take that firststep.
Think about Howard Schultz, whosaw more than a coffee shop in
Starbucks.
He saw a community.
Or J.K.
Rowling, who wrote her firstHarry Potter book as a single
mom on welfare.
(21:33):
Or me, who pivoted from publicrelations to career branding
with nothing but my belief inthe power of storytelling to
help others.
We all had no guarantees, onlyour belief in what could be.
You too have the potential topivot and create something
remarkable.
Here's the truth.
You don't need to have it allfigured out to begin.
(21:55):
Small steps lead to bigtransformations.
Enroll in a class, reach out toa mentor, start a side hustle.
Each action you take brings youcloser to your pivot.
Mid-career is your turningpoint, your chance to dream big,
take bold action, and own yoursuccess.
Don't let fear or inertia holdyou back.
(22:17):
You are capable of more than yourealize, and the best chapters
of your career are still aheadof you.
SPEAKER_03 (22:24):
In a world where first impressions are made in
the blink of an eye, your resumeis more than just a piece of
paper.
It's your story, your brand,your future.
Imagine a resume that doesn'tjust list your experiences, but
brings them to life.
A resume that doesn't whisperbut shouts your potential from
the rooftops.
Get a Better Job invites you tothe visual resume evolution, a
(22:48):
movement where your career storyunfolds with color, design, and
undeniable passion.
You have the power to redefinethe standard, to turn the tide
in your favor.
With Get a Better Job, everyline, every graphic, every bold
choice marks a step towards yourdestiny.
Don't wait.
Elevate your career path today.
(23:08):
With Get a Better Job, be seen,be memorable, and yes, get
hired.
Your next chapter starts here,and it's nothing short of
extraordinary.
SPEAKER_04 (23:24):
To learn more about Get a Better Job, visit
getabetterjob.org.
The biggest risk is not takingany risk at all.
That's a quote from MarkZuckerberg.
And it's a powerful reminderthat staying stagnant is often
riskier than trying somethingnew.
Today, I challenge you to takeone actionable step toward your
(23:45):
pivot.
Research a new industry, updateyour resume, or reach out to
someone in your network whoinspires you.
Thank you for tuning in to theMid Career Makeover Show.
If you enjoyed today's episode,please subscribe, leave a
review, and share it withsomeone who might need a little
nudge to pivot.
Remember, you're here becauseyou're ready to grow.
(24:06):
And that's an incredible firststep.
Until next time, dream big, takebold action, and own your
success because the best is yetto come.
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