Gambling on Your Future

This week a client came by my office (a rare occurrence in these days of virtual services) to pay me in cash (an even rarer occurrence).

Turns out, he recently won nearly $10,000 at a casino. He's using his winnings to pay all of his expenses and avoid dipping into his financial reserves during his period of unemployment.

This got me thinking about the "gamble" of hiring a coach, consultant, writer, agency, or other partner during the career transition process. Some executives shy away because it's not a sure bet - no legitimate career service will guarantee you a job. But instead of thinking about the cost/possible loss, think of it as a risk/reward calculation. What are the LIKELY benefits? Can you cost-justify the investment based on a quicker return (speedier process of finding your next job)? Be clear on the deliverables that you'll receive, and before gambling a dime, investigate the background/credentials of your potential partner.

All in all, I think you're better off investing in your future than wishing and hoping for a Vegas payoff.