Experienced development leaders continue to be in high demand, and periodically each of us must move out of our comfort zone to stay fresh, fulfilled, challenged, and happy. Sometimes that means changing institutions. Sometimes it means moving from educational fundraising into healthcare or other non-profit areas. Sometimes it's best to reinvent ourself at our home institution. And, of course, not every new job is a dream job - some turn out to be nightmares. What advice can you give colleagues who are seeking fresh challenges?
Be passionate about where you go. One can't be effective unless they really care about where they are. Development officers are missionaries in a way and people can tell the difference if they don't believe in what they are selling and know it. One can make a transition to health care or social service. But you'd better believe in what you are talking about.
Bill is absolutely right about this. I was once offered a new job with a big salary bump, but in my heart I knew that the institution's mission just wasn't that important to me. I passed - and have never regretted it.