Consulting story: Real life decisions are not always a "Go" or "No-Go" - 03/24

Recently, I provided guidance to a junior from my engineering college who faced a career decision. Working in pharma consulting, he received two job offers with nearly identical compensation. Let’s delve into his dilemma:

ecommerce Delivery Startup: This offer was for a Mumbai-based location (he currently resides in Pune). The startup promised a 50% salary increase compared to his current position. Intriguingly, this opportunity would take him out of the pharma industry, providing exposure to a different sector.

Pharma Consulting: The second offer came from a Pune-based company, offering a role very similar to his current one. The compensation was nearly on par with the startup offer, and there were additional onshore opportunities.

After an hour-long conversation, I shared the following advice:

Emotionally: I encouraged him to consider the startup (Option 1) since he expressed a desire to explore a new industry.

Rationally and Logically: I recommended Option 2 (Pharma Consulting) for its continuity and potential for more opportunities. While the startup may seem exciting, it comes with the challenge of adapting to a new culture, a new city, and a different industry—a significant adjustment after several years in the workforce with specific expectations for experienced roles by the new company and that too a startup which has limited tolerance for under-performers.

Which option did he choose, any guesses?

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