There is a Venn diagram where feasible and reasonable intersect, hence my question when someone wants to make a big change, “Is it feasonable?”
In careers, as in life, there can be gaps between where we are, where we have been, and where we want to go, but it doesn’t mean that people cannot make changes, convince someone to take a chance on them or take a chance on themselves.
There is nothing wrong with taking a chance or going for a big change, unless of course, one is doing it for the wrong reasons, is being unrealistic or does not understand the implications or potential risks.
Basically, one has to answer two simple questions: 1) “Is this feasible?” and 2) “Is this reasonable?”
Let’s start with “Is this feasible?” Is the desired change or goal achievable, is it practical, is it conceivable? Is it likely to end in success? The person has to show they are critically evaluating their desire to make a big change as such changes inherently carry additional risk.
Now what about the question, “Is this reasonable?” Answering this question requires a person to be able to demonstrate how their experiences, education, track record, approach, mentality and character have helped them in previous scenarios and will do so going forward.
In this situation, how does a career transition consultant add value? In our 2021 research wave, a sample of 130 executives who had been through transition, 100% agreed that when considering a career transition consultant, working with someone who will challenge assumptions is important, and 98% agreed that they want someone who can deliver a difficult message.
For example, take the long-term employee who believes entrepreneurism is the path forward. Has the person critically evaluated the risk, commitment and responsibilities that go with such a decision? Has the thinking and rationale been challenged?
Experience, empathy and the ability to engage in meaningful and at times, difficult dialogue, plays a key role in helping people in transition, especially for those who are looking to, or hoping to make a big change.
A “feasonable” career change is more likely to be realized because the individual pursuing it will have ownership of an informed decision to pursue it.