In this episode of The Vault, host Sonja Martinovic welcomes John Tarnoff—a career coach and former studio executive—to explore how mid-career professionals can break through employment barriers, especially those imposed by age bias and a broken hiring system. John shares his journey from film production to career coaching, emphasizing the need for resilience, mindset shifts, and authentic networking. The discussion covers practical strategies for standing out in crowded job markets, reframing gaps on resumes, and leveraging one’s unique value proposition rather than trying to fit into generic job descriptions. Both John and Sonja reflect on hiring dynamics, the power of acting “as if,” and the importance of clarity and purpose in mid-career transitions. The episode also highlights John's book and online community, offering resources for professionals seeking transformation and fulfillment in their careers
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👉In this episode of The Vault, host Sonja Martinovic welcomes John Tarnoff—a career coach and former studio executive—to explore how mid-career professionals can break through employment barriers, especially those imposed by age bias and a broken hiring system. John shares his journey from film production to career coaching, emphasizing the need for resilience, mindset shifts, and authentic networking. The discussion covers practical strategies for standing out in crowded job markets, reframing gaps on resumes, and leveraging one’s unique value proposition rather than trying to fit into generic job descriptions. Both John and Sonja reflect on hiring dynamics, the power of acting “as if,” and the importance of clarity and purpose in mid-career transitions. The episode also highlights John's book and online community, offering resources for professionals seeking transformation and fulfillment in their careers
👉Key Takeaways
Building authentic professional connections is more effective than simply submitting resumes online.
Approach job interviews with confidence and a clear sense of mission, acting as if you are already part of the team.
Focus on your unique value proposition rather than trying to fit every job description; specialization attracts the right opportunities.
Confidence follows action: take proactive steps even when feeling uncomfortable, and use setbacks as learning experiences
(00:00) Introduction to The Vault
(01:14) Meet John Tarnoff: Career Expert
(03:41) Challenges in the Hiring System
(06:12) Mindset Shifts for Job Seekers
(07:52) Strategies for Successful Job Interviews
(11:43) The Importance of Authenticity in Job Applications
(21:14) Addressing Age Bias in Hiring
(23:08 Taking Control of Your Career Narrative
(27:05) Addressing Resume Gaps Confidently
(29:53) The Value of Experience in the Workforce
(30:55) Embracing Mid-Career Changes
(33:45) Building Confidence Through Action
(35:27) Insights from 'Boomer Reinvention'
(35:47) Finding Purpose in Mid-Career
(39:33) Connecting with John
🌎 Connect with John
Connect with John Tarnoff on LinkedIn for career coaching and strategy calls.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/johntarnoff
Check out John’s book "Boomer Reinvention: How to Create Your Dream Career Over 50"
https://shorturl.at/3LDWs
Join the "Mid-Career Lab" community via John’s LinkedIn page to participate in group support for career transitions.
https://midcareerlab.com/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/johntarnoffcoach/
Website https://johntarnoff.com/about2/
🌎 Connect with Sonja
Facebook: www.facebook.com/sonja.martinovic.1111
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sonjamartinovic
Website: www.sonjamartinovic.com
🎤 Podcast post-production Seamless Multimedia