“Any observant local knows more than any visiting scientist. Always. No exceptions.” Roger Payne

This quote really spoke to me when I reflected on what has changed since I left consulting 2.5 years ago. If you don’t know, I worked for a top management consulting firm for almost 8.5 years and was close to the point where my “window” to become a full partner would open.

So why did I leave? Have you heard the saying “always the bridesmaid, never the bride”? That’s exactly how I felt. I had helped design and steer transformation, product developments, organizational changes, and new strategies. But I was never in the driver’s seat.

When I joined VMware, I wrote a post here on LinkedIn on why I joined VMware. My reasons were people, impact, and challenges. I wanted to have a more profound impact compared to what I could have in 3-month projects on (1) people, (2) the organization I work for, and (3) those organizations we serve as a vendor. And I do 😊

It comes down to the Roger Payne quote above: being inside the organization, I have a much better view of what is going on, how things really work, and how to drive change effectively. Of course, there is a benefit also to the visiting scientist: she can bring new ideas and a fresh perspective when you don’t see the wood for the trees. But ultimately, only insiders can make change a reality.

So while I would never say never, for now, no regrets. I find the driver’s seat very comfortable – and I am looking forward to driving even more change and taking on even more responsibility.