How Career Pivots Can Still Lead to Success
EPISODE 4: ZIG ZAGS & U-TURNS

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EPISODE 4: ZIG ZAGS & U-TURNS
How Career Pivots Can Still Lead To Success.
Careers don’t follow a straight line: they swerve, dip, meander, and occasionally do doughnuts in a car park at midnight. In this episode, Caroline explores why so-called ‘weird moves’ are often the smartest, bravest, most strategic ones you can make. If you've ever worried that you're not climbing the ladder the ‘right’ way, this one’s your permission slip to blow up the the traditional route up and build your own path, chaos, curiosity, and all.
IN THIS EPISODE
Why zig-zagging isn’t a backwards move, it’s a move for strength
The science behind non-linear career growth
Real-life “Sliding Doors” moments and how to spot your own
Listener dilemma: Should you take a sideways move with less money?
A fun round of Would You Rather: Career Curveball Edition
The quote we’re putting in the bin this week: “Stay in your lane.” (No thanks, we’re building the motorway.)
YOU'LL LEARN
How to recognise real opportunities—even when they’re not dressed like one
Why traditional career ladders are broken (and what to do instead)
The difference between career plans and career patterns
How to make bold career moves—even if they look messy or sideways to others
Practical mindset shifts to help you move with purpose, not panic
BOLD MOVES
Reframe sideways or ‘lower’ moves as strategic skills-building
Get curious about other people’s journeys, ask how they really got there
Stop asking “Is this the right move?” and start asking, “What will I learn?”
Play your own game, not the one LinkedIn’s trying to sell you
TOOLS MENTIONED
Your Bolds Moves Brief
Big Conversations Guide
If your career map looks more like a toddler’s crayon drawing than a tidy LinkedIn timeline, GOOD. That means you’re thinking for yourself. Keep zigging, keep zagging, and trust that the best paths aren’t straight.
TIME STAMPS
00:00 Navigating Career Chaos
03:00 Embracing Ziggy Victories
05:55 Recognising Sliding Doors Moments
08:37 The Broken Career Ladder
11:48 Zigzagging Your Way to Success
12:19 Jonna's Story
14:37 Practical Career Moves
17:44 Redefining Career Quotes
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What made you wince?
That’s where the magic lives.
If something clicked today, don’t let it stay a passing thought. Scribble it down. Say it out loud. Try it tomorrow, even if it’s messy. Especially if it’s messy.
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And finally, don’t forget your Pocket Power-Up. Because bold moves start with tiny, intentional ones. We made this bit for the you-who-takes-action.