312: How One Mid-Career Professional Landed His Ideal Job After 125 Applications with Chris Bond

Send us a text If you’re in the middle of a job search and feeling frustrated by the lack of responses, this episode is a must-listen. Today, I’m joined by Chris Bond, who candidly shares the data from his six-month job search in 2025. His story sheds light on what’s working, and what’s not, in today’s competitive mid-career job market. Chris applied for 125 positions and achieved a 50% personalized response rate and a 10% interview rate. These are numbers that far exceed typical job search expectations! In our conversation, he explains the strategies behind these results, including:Why tailoring your applications to targeted roles is more effective than applying everywhereHow he optimized his resume to pass AI screening tools and land more interviewsThe importance of following up (and how to do it without feeling pushy)Why in-person job opportunities turned out to be more successful than remote rolesHow powerful “I help” statements transformed his interview performance. Chris also emphasizes the importance of being clear about your non-negotiables and how to confidently communicate your value in interviews. His story is a roadmap for mid-career professionals who are tired of spinning their wheels and ready to take a more strategic approach. Whether you’re actively searching for a new role or simply considering your next move, this episode will help you navigate the complexities of today’s job market with clarity, persistence, and confidence. Connect with Chris Bond on LinkedIn by clicking here.  Support the show 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. Thank you for listening to The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. 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.