When we think about change, we often imagine it as one big leap. In reality, it begins quietly — with one step, then another. Only in hindsight do we realize that this series of small decisions has reshaped our entire career.

Why does this matter — for candidates, managers, or leaders? Because everything around us is changing: job content, team priorities, and what’s expected of leadership itself.

Clients today don’t just look for perfect résumés — they look for people who can handle uncertainty, stay the course, and deliver results without a perfect map. Meanwhile, candidates are seeking more meaning in their work than ever before. Change is becoming a constant, whether it means a new role, a shift in focus, or a complete career transformation.

So, how can you manage change in a way that feels intentional — not accidental? Let’s look at a few key lessons based on the real experience of Roman Kohout, CFO and Vice Chairman of the Board at Maxima Insurance Company. In our podcast “Červená nit,” Roman shares pivotal career moments — not theory, but decisions made in practice.

Lesson 1: Change Starts Within You — Not in the Market

Instead of asking what’s trending right now, focus on what makes you valuable, what brings you meaning, and what you no longer want to do.

Roman tells the story of moving to Australia, expecting a smooth start. The reality was tougher — limited language skills, no plan, no safety net. Yet he stayed in motion, gained experience, and later turned those lessons into professional strength back home.

What to take away: Don’t wait for perfect conditions. Start with what you have and use it to create your first results. What matters is movement, not a flawless beginning.

Lesson 2: Act in Time — Don’t Wait for Certainty

In the projects Roman described, success wasn’t about always being right — it was about acting in time. Waiting for 100% certainty is often the most expensive choice.

Smart change means making informed decisions, setting clear checkpoints, and adjusting along the way.
When things go off plan, don’t rebuild from scratch — correct your course and keep going.

Lesson 3: Your Career Isn’t a Straight Line

Roman once moved from finance to marketing — and back again. On paper, it looked inconsistent. In reality, it was about connecting people, budgets, and execution.

The transferable parts weren’t just technical skills. They were responsibility, focus, and the ability to align teams around what truly matters.

What to take away: Don’t limit your experience to job titles. Translate it into skills that work across industries. That’s what clients and leaders truly value.

Lesson 4: Change Requires Endurance

Change is more like a marathon than a sprint. Roman describes sport as a “silent school of will.” It’s not about medals, but about showing up when you don’t feel like it and keeping pace when it hurts.

At work, that means sticking to the plan, recharging your energy, and starting again after every setback.

What to take away: Don’t plan every tiny detail — plan your rhythm and rituals instead. That’s what keeps you moving. Your team will feel that stability and draw strength from it.

From Principles to Practice

• How do you turn these lessons into action?
• Start with a quick self-audit. Write down three directions that interest you most and explore them.
• Talk to people already working in those areas.
• Try a small project outside your main job.
• Update your CV and LinkedIn to reflect your transferable results and skills.

Then track your progress: What motivated you? What challenged you? What surprised you?
Only then make the next decision. That’s how you build change on real insight — not wishful thinking.

Why Talk About Change on a Headhunting Company’s Blog?

Because this is exactly when you need an experienced partner who can translate your skills into the language of the market.
We help candidates uncover their most valuable experience — and we help companies find people who can perform under pressure. Not one-day heroes, but leaders built for the long run.

Would you like to hear more about these principles in a real story? Listen to our “Červená nit” podcast with Roman Kohout and discover what change looks like under the microscope — what it feels like to arrive in a foreign country, make decisions on the move, and come back stronger.

And if you’re standing at the edge of change, reach out to us. Together, we’ll turn small steps into a clear direction.