Written by: Amy Sitnick
You may have seen that I recently announced that I left SEI - a company that I loved, a mature social media program that I was proud of and was recognized industry-wide, and colleagues and clients that were more than just work relationships – they were true friends.
Why would I do that? Honestly, even I thought I was crazy.
However, there were many signs pushing me in a new direction. For one, I met LuAnn Cahn – Philadelphia journalist and inspirational author of the book, I Dare Me last year, and she lectures a lot about how pushing yourself to do new things can change your life. I also attended the PA Conference for Women . There were so many talks devoted to women seizing opportunities and climbing the corporate ladder.
And here I was with an opportunity to build social media again, at another company recognized by Philadelphia Magazine as a coolest place to work.
So here I am starting the New Year, at a new company, and with so many insights into life and work.
It was only a matter of time before I took to blogging to let you know what I've been up to. Here are some of the key themes of my transition that might benefit you too:
Change is hard: People always say that, but it’s harder than you think. Leaving an established role can make you feel vulnerable, perhaps leading you to ask, “Will I succeed in another organization?” It’s important to recognize those feelings, but on the other hand, it’s important to find inner confidence. Perhaps it’s leaning on a personal coach, reading up on the industry to feel more prepared, getting other areas of your life organized so you can devote your whole self to your work. I did all of those things and it helped me find my footing. You can too. Know your new company hired you for a reason – you have specialized knowledge that you bring to the organization. You help complete the puzzle of their organization in a new and different way.
Relationships go beyond work: Especially in the day and age of social media, it’s easier than ever to stay in touch with your network. Those relationships really don’t go away upon leaving a company. Sure you don’t see everyone at the same frequency as before, but those relationships last. In fact, I didn’t say goodbye when I left; I said, “See you soon.” It’s up to you, however, to stay in touch and nurture your friendships. I have to tell you, I’ve been spending more time on the phone – actually talking to people – than ever before. If you’re not face-to-face, phone-to-phone helps for quality time.
Audiobooks and podcasts are your friends: I don’t know about you, but I never seem to have time to read. At the end of the day (literally, not figuratively), I’m so tired that when I climb into bed, I crash. Hard. So now that I have a longer commute, I’ve enjoyed listening to the Serial podcast and listening to audiobooks. (I’m sure I’ll throw in some tunes and Howard Stern interviews soon.)
Having a Framework Helps: Speaking of audiobooks, a mentor of mine gave me the book, “ The First 90 Days. ” It has been more helpful than I even imagined. I have the hardback and audio version for the car. To get up and running, I’m focused on learning the business, meeting my colleagues, embracing the culture and most importantly, contributing to the organization in a meaningful way. I’ve already referred the book to a handful of people who are going through similar situations. Since other people have helped me through my transition, I’d love to share what resources have been helpful to me with others.
Kids are resilient: Lastly, I was mostly concerned about how my children would react to a new routine. I’m a working mom – full time devoted to both. I love my career and it’s important that my children see me as a role model and contributor to our family. On the other hand, I’m very devoted to my home life and being a very present parent (this weekend’s snow storm made for lots of quality time to say the least!). I'm happy to report that the kids are doing well and know I’m still their number one cheerleader. It’s absolutely appropriate here to give a big shout out to my husband, Anthony Erjavec . As Sheryl Sandberg says, the most important career decision you can make is who you select as a husband and that couldn’t be more true. He’s a full partner to me and our family.
Saying I was leaving was the scariest thing I’ve ever done, but I’m glad I did it. I’ve learned so much about myself and I’m now enjoying being immersed in yet another new area of the financial services industry.
Look for more posts from me coming soon about social media, content marketing and insights from my transition.
I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences around starting a new role and suggestions for success.