Navigating Career Changes in Uncertain Times
Lessons from Who Moved My Cheese?
IN 2024, Chapter 11 filings have become increasingly common, leaving employees in a state of uncertainty. When a company files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, it restructures to stay in business, which often means changes to roles, department reorganizations, and sometimes layoffs. This can be unsettling and disruptive. Spencer Johnson's Who Moved My Cheese? offers timeless wisdom for dealing with these sudden changes in our professional lives and provides a framework to navigate them with resilience and adaptability.
Embrace the Inevitability of Change
Who Moved My Cheese? teaches us that change is inevitable. In the story, characters Hem and Haw represent two very different approaches to dealing with change: while Hem resists, Haw adapts and explores new options. In a similar vein, when a company files for Chapter 11, it's an external change beyond an employee's control. While the uncertainty is unsettling, resisting the change won't stop it from happening. Instead, accepting the new reality and looking for ways to adapt within this environment-whether by upskilling, taking on new responsibilities, or seeking a fresh perspective-helps build resilience and prepares you for whatever lies ahead.
Don't Hold On to "Old Cheese"
One of the core concepts in Johnson's book is the idea of "letting go of the old cheese"-in other words, moving on from past success and comfort. In the context of Chapter 11 restructuring, "old cheese" might look like clinging to the way things used to be, or holding onto outdated roles and processes. During bankruptcy proceedings, companies may trim down departments or eliminate roles altogether, which can be a tough pill to swallow. However, it's crucial to let go of attachments to outdated roles or processes and to be open to new opportunities within the organization or even beyond it. By staying agile and considering the broader career landscape, you'll be ready to pursue new paths if they arise.
Look for "New Cheese"
Once you've accepted that the "cheese" has moved, the next step is to find new opportunities. When a company is going through Chapter 11, there may be an uptick in unexpected opportunities as departments realign and job functions shift. Use this time to assess your skills and identify new areas within the organization that need support. Networking internally with other teams or exploring emerging roles can help you gain visibility and potentially lead to new career paths. Taking proactive steps, even during times of uncertainty, can make you a valuable asset to the organization as it repositions itself for recovery.
Prepare for the Next Change
Chapter 11 is a signal that the business climate is unpredictable, and therefore it's essential to be prepared for the next change. In Who Moved My Cheese?, Johnson emphasizes the value of "smelling the cheese often" to anticipate shifts. Practically, this means keeping a pulse on industry trends, company performance, and personal career goals. If the company emerges from Chapter 11 stronger, you'll have prepared yourself well to contribute to a fresh chapter. If further instability follows, you'll be better equipped to seek opportunities elsewhere. Staying agile, keeping your skills relevant, and having a network in place makes navigating future changes more manageable.
Key Takeaways for Career Planning in Chapter 11 Times
Accept Change Proactively: Recognize that change is beyond your control, and be open to it. The faster you accept it, the quicker you can adjust.
Let Go of the Past: Don't hold onto the old way of doing things. Be ready to adapt to new processes, roles, or even a new career direction if needed.
Seek Opportunities, Even in Uncertain Times: Chapter 11 may open new avenues internally, so look for ways to make yourself indispensable by identifying where your skills can be applied in emerging areas.
Prepare for Future Changes: Use this experience as a learning opportunity. Keep your skills sharp, stay connected to your network, and remain open to new paths.
The core message of Who Moved My Cheese?-that adaptability and a forward-focused mindset can turn challenges into opportunities-has never been more relevant. Chapter 11 filings are daunting, but they also serve as a reminder that the ability to shift gears and pivot is one of the most powerful skills you can have in your career toolkit.