Thanksgiving Pause
Carol Metzner • December 18, 2025
As a recruiter, I move fast—searches, decisions, conversations that shape careers. But Thanksgiving reminds me to slow down, breathe, and appreciate the bigger picture.
Gratitude isn’t just seasonal; it’s the foundation of meaningful relationships and clearer perspective. Each person I meet reminds me of resilience, ambition, and possibility—and that’s what keeps me inspired.
Wishing you time to decompress, reconnect, and carry that spirit into the season ahead.
The Metzner Group Blog
We’ve all seen it: a colleague facing a career crossroads reaches out to every connection they’ve built — asking for introductions, advice, or simply a listening ear. Many of us respond, because we understand the stakes. The fear of unemployment or being in a role that no longer fits is real. But then they land. The pressure lifts. And when others reach out to them for support, the response is… silence. In today’s climate, where so many talented A/E/C executives are exploring new opportunities, navigating leadership transitions, or rethinking their next chapter, let’s remember that networking is a two-way street. ✅ If someone helped you during your search, be the person who helps them now. ✅ If you’re in a stable role, take a moment to respond to those reaching out. ✅ If you’re navigating change, lean on your network — but also nurture it. The consulting engineering sector thrives on collaboration, trust, and long-term partnerships. Let’s extend that same spirit to how we support one another professionally. We rise by lifting each other — not just when we need help, but when others do.
In my more than 35 years as an executive search professional, I’ve seen this scenario play out time and again—often quietly, and with great emotional weight. Well-run firms and thoughtful leaders work hard to create opportunities for their key people. They invest in development, offer stretch roles, and try to align talent with evolving business needs. But sometimes—even with the best intentions—there simply isn’t a role that keeps a high-performing employee challenged or allows them to bring meaningful value to the organization. What happens then? If you’re that employee, you’ve likely tried to pivot. You’ve raised your hand, taken on new responsibilities, and stayed loyal. But despite your efforts, the fit isn’t there anymore. Not because of a lack of commitment—but because you’ve grown. This is a tough moment. It’s not about dissatisfaction. It’s about evolution. Sometimes, the most respectful and strategic move—for both the individual and the organization—is to explore opportunities elsewhere. Not as a rejection of the past, but as a continuation of growth. When done thoughtfully, this kind of transition honors the contributions made and opens the door for fresh impact. Let’s normalize these conversations. Let’s support leaders who are honest about capacity, and professionals who are brave enough to seek new challenges. Have you ever faced this crossroads? How did you navigate it?
