Funniest all-time comment on career change

So the current key to effective branding, according to 2.0 content masters, is unique story telling that communicates key differentiators, or what sets you apart. Not all of us have clear differentiators, but that's beside the point.

It's always entertaining to read this type of language because it's been around since, well, Henry Ford and the Model T Ford. That may or may not be an exaggeration, but you get the point.

One of my favorite stories from the front lines occurred all the way back in 2006. Talking via phone for the first time to a COO of a homegrown company that was being acquired, the subject asked the normal range of questions and then proceeded to go a little deeper with a funny story. He said, "You know, Jeremy, my biggest fear is being stuck at home, watching Jerry Springer episodes all day."

Jerry Springer
Courtesy twitter.com

My response was almost chortle-like laughter, although admittedly since all great humor contains truth, the comment did provide pause. Recovering from the awkwardness, the next comment was the reassuring kind -- something along the lines of "I'm pretty certain you won't have that problem." This moment remains the all-time best when it comes to unintended revelation. This person would later hire me, but that's beside the point.

Anxiety or fear about change is real. Going to extremes in the early going is normal. Being a little off base and questioning purpose after working forever not only is healthy but can lead to a better place.

But please don't feel like you have to do so alone. That's generally where trouble starts. Turn to friends, trusted colleagues, formal/informal advisors or even a professional, if necessary. Read some stuff (highly recommend "Working Identity" by Herminia Ibarra); watch a podcast or two. Then commit to a plan of action around trying a few new experiments. The single biggest deterrent to change is thinking too much about will come next vs. doing something. Journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step. -- famous Chinese philosopher (Lao Tzu.)

Oh, in case you were left wondering what eventually happened to the previously mentioned subject, he transitioned effectively out of his long-time corporate role and now works in private equity. A traditional segue if there ever was one. For the record, it's not certain that any Jerry Springer episodes were viewed before, during or after the change.

 

Dilbert by Scott Adams
Courtesy: Georgia CEO

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P.S. We're not leaving anything to chance these dog days of summer. If you or someone you know would like to learn more about our differentiated approach to executive transition, please feel to reach out via email, phone or social media. A new season approaches. Here are our coordinates:

 

 

Jeremy C. Garlington
Point of View LLC
4060 Peachtree Rd./Suite D-#117
Atlanta, GA, 30319
Phone: 404-606-0637
Web site: www.pointofviewllc.com
TGR web log:  www.povblogger.blogspot.com 

Twitter: @jgarlington