Episode #130: Leveraging Connections

Leveraging Connections with Janice Porter

Have you ever wondered if who you know matters more than what you know? This question lies at the heart of a transformative conversation with Janice Porter, a relationship marketing strategist who turned her teaching career into a thriving business built on connections.

Janice’s journey—from elementary school teacher to LinkedIn specialist—offers valuable insights for anyone feeling stuck or uncertain about their next career chapter, especially midlife professionals considering a change. She shares how the limitations of the school system led her to pursue a completely new path in business, ultimately building a successful career helping others leverage relationships for growth.

In this episode, Janice demystifies relationship marketing and explains how to harness the power of Linkedin as a networking tool. With her philosophy of “sending out to give, not to get,” she redefines traditional networking, emphasizing authentic connections and long-lasting business relationships. Janice offers actionable strategies for overcoming the fear of rejection, maintaining relationships through follow-ups, and turning online connections into real-world opportunities.

If you’re worried you’re “too old” to start something new, Janice has a message for you: ” You’ve got wisdom to offer.” She celebrates how experience, when paired with curiosity and openness, is the ultimate advantage. Ready to tap into the power of relationships? Tune in to discover how shifting your mindset and embracing connection could be the game changer in your career and life satisfaction.

For similar episodes on career transitions after 50  please check out episodes 109 and 117

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Key Takeaways from Leveraging Connections

The Early Years: Passion for Teaching & The Shift:

Janice reflects on her love for teaching young children and how that passion shaped her early career. However, over time, the bureaucracy of the public school system began to wear her down. A break from teaching to focus on her family led to a crossroads, where she began to consider other paths.

A New Direction: Teaching Adults:

Janice shares how a chance opportunity led her to teach adults in a corporate setting. Although unfamiliar at first, she embraced the challenge, learned how to adapt her teaching skills, and found satisfaction in doing it on her own terms as a contract trainer.

Reinvention Through Relationships & Business Ownership:

When her corporate training contract came to an end, Janice had to pivot once again. She turned to local networking through the Chamber of Commerce, eventually launching a professional organizing business. This phase marked her initial dive into entrepreneurship, where she began learning the ropes of running her own business.

Discovering LinkedIn & a New Teaching Platform:

Janice discusses her early experience with social media, how Facebook didn’t resonate with her, and how discovering LinkedIn changed everything. She realized it was a platform aligned with her strengths—professional, structured, and ideal for teaching. LinkedIn became her next great passion and business focus.

LinkedIn as a Relationship-Building Tool:

She explains how LinkedIn evolved from a job-seeking platform to a powerful business networking tool. Janice emphasizes that LinkedIn remains an underutilized space for genuine professional connection and offers practical insights for beginners looking to use it effectively.

The Art of Connection & Follow-Up:

Janice talks about how both online and in-person networking often fail because of poor follow-up. She shares her personal system for staying in touch—whether through phone calls, Zoom, or sending cards—and stresses the importance of making others feel seen and valued.

Follow-Up Systems: Old School vs. New School:

When it comes to staying organized with follow-ups, Janice breaks down the pros and cons of using physical calendars, spreadsheets, and digital CRM systems. She shares what’s worked for her and encourages listeners to find a system that fits their personality and workflow.

Overcoming Fear & Selling Without Selling:

Fear of rejection is real, especially when reaching out with a business motive. Janice offers advice on how to overcome that fear by leading with authenticity and making the interaction about the other person. She emphasizes the principle of “sending out to give, not to get” and explains how genuine connection opens the door for business organically.

Advice for Women Starting Over Later in Life:

Addressing women who feel it’s “too late” to reinvent themselves, Janice dispels the myth. She speaks from experience, sharing how staying curious, staying current, and connecting with younger generations keeps her inspired and energized. Her message is clear: age is not a barrier when you lead with purpose and wisdom.

Connect with Janice Porter

Connect with Bev:

Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/womenover50rock

https://www.linkedin.com/in/beverleyglazer/

Need advice? Schedule a time to talk: https://calendly.com/reinventimpossible/15min