Case Studies (Example Scenarios)

Promotion Denied, Path Unclear

Deciding whether to push, wait or disengage

Situation
Laura was told she wouldn’t be promoted this year. Feedback was positive but vague. “Strong performer.” “Maybe next cycle.”

The risk
She didn’t know whether this was a temporary delay or a quiet signal she was capped. Waiting blindly risked losing time and leverage. Pushing without clarity risked damaging relationships.

What we did
We clarified how promotions were actually decided, tested whether sponsorship was real, and prepared direct talking points for a career conversation.

Outcome
The conversation confirmed the path was unlikely. Laura stopped over-investing internally and began exploring external options deliberately, without regret or panic.

Stay or Leave Under Uncertainty

When safety and stagnation look the same

Situation
Nina’s role survived a restructuring, but her remit quietly shrank. She was told to “be patient” while leadership figured out the new structure.

The risk
Staying felt safe. But every month that passed reduced her visibility and leverage. Leaving too early risked overreacting.

What we did
We assessed whether the role still had a future path, who would need to actively sponsor it, and what signals would indicate recovery versus slow sidelining.

Outcome
Nina stayed temporarily, but with clear conditions and a defined exit trigger. When those signals didn’t materialise, she moved on without second-guessing the timing.

High-Stakes Exit Timing

Leaving without burning leverage

Situation
James was considering leaving after a series of leadership changes. Nothing was formally wrong, but his exposure was increasing and decision-making had become erratic.

The risk
Leaving too soon could look impulsive. Waiting too long could leave him carrying risk without protection.

What we did
We mapped the decision dependencies, identified what needed to happen before exiting, and prepared talking points to manage perception while she positioned her next move.

Outcome
James delayed his exit briefly to contain risk, then moved deliberately when conditions aligned. He left with his reputation intact and his options open.

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