New Job, New Opportunities...

     I spent fifteen years with one company before deciding to move on to a new opportunity for various reasons. While my experience in the new role was positive overall, there were a few things I wish I had considered—or someone had shared with me—before making the transition. That knowledge would have significantly eased the process.

The Emotional Bank Account

     You may already be familiar with the concept of an emotional bank account. In a workplace context, it refers to the trust and credibility you build over time with colleagues. This trust is earned through consistent work ethic, sound decision-making, and a demonstrated understanding of team and management expectations. It’s an unspoken currency that can make collaboration and leadership smoother.

When I moved to a new company, I was caught off guard by how different things felt. Management, coworkers, and even the team I managed often questioned my decisions—not because I was wrong but because they didn’t yet know or trust me. My emotional bank account at this new company started at zero. Worse, any misstep could potentially push that balance into the negative for a while.

Looking back, I’ve come to understand that making a major career shift, whether to a new company, a different division, or even through events like mergers or outsourcing, requires rebuilding these trust reserves. It’s about forming new relationships, being open to different perspectives, and taking the time to understand the company’s unique culture. These efforts are essential to replenishing your emotional bank account and setting yourself up for success in a new environment.

"This Worked in My Last Job" Syndrome

Moving to a new company also brings a unique set of challenges. After fifteen years, I had developed and refined processes and systems that worked well in my previous role. Naturally, I assumed these tried-and-true methods would seamlessly translate to my new position. However, I quickly realized that no two companies are the same. The people, culture, leadership styles, and even the financial priorities can differ significantly. For example, one company might prioritize expense control while another is more focused on innovation or growth-driven strategies.

The key is to take the time to learn and truly understand the new environment—its people, its processes, and its culture. You need to evaluate what is already working and where there’s room for improvement. Then, using your experience and knowledge as a foundation, you can craft a vision tailored to the new situation. Share that vision, inspire others to align with it, and work collaboratively to achieve it. What worked in one company rarely, if ever, works exactly the same way in another.

Moving to a new position and even a new company can be a challenge and a major growth opportunity.  My hope is that your understanding the points above, may help you understand what to expect, and make your transition more fulfilling.

- BigE