Breaking in-house (Post 2)

What if I make the wrong move?

My first jump in-house — though to a respectable and successful company — was not a fit. I soon realized that, while drafting and advocating for crypto and fintech legislation was fascinating, I wanted to work with operators to strategize and build products.

But I’d already made the move! I’d signed the contract, spent the moving stipend, onboarded, and promised my expectant manager that I’d dive into any project assigned. I’d also leaned on the kindness of mentors who’d coached me through the interview process.

Looking back, I recognize I came in with more confidence than curiosity. I was eager to prove myself, but not always eager to listen. I pushed to reshape the role into something closer to my interests — asking for more corporate counseling work — instead of embracing the work at hand. I didn’t always manage my words with care. And I underestimated how much cultural alignment matters when you’re joining a small, high-intensity team.

These were hard lessons to learn. But the role humbled me and made me far more self-aware — a shift that’s shaped how I've approached every role since.

Tips for bouncing back

1. Build a network long before Day 1.

Having developed an interest and knowledge of the fintech industry for years (see Breaking In-House, Part 1), I’d naturally accumulated a fantastic network of mentors — attorneys, law enforcement officers, operators, and founders. That network helped me find the right next move.

2. Maintain your industry passion.

At my law firm, I launched and drafted numerous posts for the Fintech Blog. In my first in-house role, I contributed to whitepapers and blog posts on crypto regulations. You can do the same in your industry — write client updates, start a newsletter or podcast, attend industry events. This keeps you visible and credible, especially if you need to pivot roles sooner than planned.

3. Keep your skills transferable.

Even if the subject matter isn’t perfect, focus on developing skills you can take with you. Show your next employer you didn’t just mark time. Learn your company’s business model. Build relationships with engineering, design, data, recruiting, finance, marketing, and partnerships teams. Become an expert in a business vertical.

4. Cultivate your reputation.

“It takes many good deeds to build a good reputation, and only one bad one to lose it.”

Keep a professional attitude and focus on doing good work, even when the fit isn’t perfect. It’s remarkable how small the world is — and how fast word travels.