Take that Call
Should You Take the Leap? Lessons from My Critical Moments Conversation with Michelle Benfer
Some career moves are planned. Others show up unannounced. The question is—will you answer the call?
My friend, Michelle Benfer, wasn’t looking for a job. She had the job—leading revenue for Bill, a billion-dollar public company with 500+ people on her team. But when a recruiter called about an operating partner role at Francisco Partners, in private equity, she wasn’t sure.
“Was it too soon? Had I earned it? Was I really ready to leave behind leading big teams and running a business at scale?”
In the latest episode of Critical Moments, Michelle shares the real story of how she navigated this huge decision, leaned on mentors for guidance, and ultimately took the leap.
After a lot of reflection (and a phone call with a lifelong friend), she made the leap.
There’s a lot to learn from Michelle’s experience:
1. Big Moves Rarely Feel Like Perfect Timing
When you’ve worked your whole career to reach a certain goal, it’s hard to imagine stepping away from it. But sometimes, staying put is the bigger risk. Michelle wasn’t sure if she was “ready,” but she recognized the opportunity for what it was—rare, exciting, and aligned with her long-term vision.
Lesson: If you wait until you feel 100% ready, you may miss the best opportunities.
2. Seek Input, Not Just Confirmation
Michelle didn’t make the decision alone. She reached out to mentors, former bosses, and peers—people who knew her well but had different perspectives. Some told her to go for it. Others thought she should stay put. That contrast helped her weigh her own priorities.
Lesson: Surround yourself with smart people who’ll challenge your thinking, not just validate it.
3. Follow Intellectual Curiosity, Not Just the Money
Michelle loved leading big teams. In her new role, she has zero direct reports. That shift felt uncomfortable, but it also meant she could focus on something she’d always been drawn to—analyzing businesses at a high level. She wasn’t making the move for a paycheck; she was making it for long-term growth.
Lesson: Compensation matters, but career fulfillment comes from challenge and curiosity.
4. Trust the People Who Believe in You
Michelle’s final push came from a trusted friend who told her, “You’ve delivered on every goal you’ve set—why wouldn’t you do it again?” That outside belief helped her see what she was capable of.
Lesson: Sometimes, others can see your potential before you can. Listen to them.
Take the Call
If a recruiter called you today about an unexpected opportunity, would you take the call? Michelle did—and it led to a game-changing career move. The best opportunities don’t always come when you expect them. The key is recognizing them when they do.
Be sure to listen to this episode of Critical Moments on Spotify, Apple, Amazon, or wherever you listen to this stuff.
I would love to hear from you. Have you ever made a career move that felt risky but turned out to be the right choice? Drop a comment below.