In his early career, Eddie appeared destined for long-term success. Through the 1990s and well into the 2000s, he rose steadily through the ranks in the newspaper business. His performance was strong, the compensation was excellent, and the prestige of his roles continued to grow. Although he worked on the business side and saw the early signs of digital disruption, he convinced himself that his seniority would shield him from the turbulence that was reshaping the industry.
When Eddie accepted a major leadership role at a prominent Connecticut newspaper, our families became acquainted, and I learned his professional story closely. In 2010, he was laid off—an outcome that shocked him more than it should have. By that point, the traditional media landscape was in free fall. Instead of reassessing his direction or seeking structured guidance from a career counselor, he attempted to remain in the same shrinking field.
After a lengthy job search, he secured another media role, only to be let go again within a year. What followed was an unfortunate pattern familiar to many mid-career professionals in declining industries: stretches of unemployment, progressively less promising positions, and additional layoffs. Those close to him, including his wife, encouraged him to explore a genuine career pivot and to seek professional support. But Eddie, known for a certain stubborn confidence, insisted he could navigate the situation alone.
Across seven years, he went through four layoffs.
Formally stated: Eddie’s experience reflects a hard truth. Even highly capable professionals can misread industry change and overestimate their ability to self-manage a career crisis. In my judgment, this is precisely when expert guidance—such as the structured career transition services offered by Career Counseling Connecticut—is most valuable. Early intervention prevents reactive job moves, protects long-term earning power, and allows professionals to build a sustainable new path before circumstances force their hand.
The world is changing rapidly. Even if you are a thirty something in the midst of a successful career, you might want to be ready for the new… new… new.. constantly changing work.