Alan Shoebridge
- Sep 2, 2019
- 2 min read

Thinking about a change? Here’s what matters most

Updated: Sep 3, 2019

I’ve noticed a LOT of career changes during the past three years or so among my colleagues, peers and extended LinkedIn network. I think there are probably a number of factors for this situation, including a strong overall economy, advantageous job market for candidates and my generation (Gen X) now reaching the midpoint of their professional careers.

As part of the ubiquitous LinkedIn status updates, I’ve also observed that some of those initial career changes didn’t stick. Several people moved jobs more than once and sometimes even twice in less than 18 months. This seemed to occur even among people who made major changes that included leaving long-term employers and relocating to new parts of the country. Unexpectedly, I experienced this situation myself.

Next week, I’ll be facilitating a conversation about this subject with three of my fellow SHSMD board members at the SHSMD Connections conference in Nashville. Like me, they all made major career decisions in the past two years and will share what they learned, and offer their specific advice for making successful transitions. If you are thinking about pursuing a new opportunity in the near future – something different where you work now or leaving for a new opportunity elsewhere – their stories will help you prepare to flourish in your new role.

The conference conversation

Here are three areas we’ll discuss in more detail on Tuesday, Sept. 10 at 8:30:

How to prepare in advance. Adequate preparation seems simple, but is often overlooked. You must be professionally, personally and financially prepared for what your change might entail. This is especially true if you could be relocating and/or leaving a job and area you know well.
How to evaluate opportunities. If I had to provide one piece of advice here, it would be to trust your gut. If anything feels off during the recruitment period, consider very carefully whether you want to make that change. Anything you pick up on regarding the culture of a new organization, or even a new department where you work now, that feels off will only be magnified when you actually take the job.
How to successfully onboard as a new leader. The phrase “you don’t get a second chance to make a good first impression” is really true. Time is of the essence when evaluating your new situation; making smart (and sometimes difficult) decisions early is key for leadership roles.