Navigating Career Paths: The Value of Lateral Moves
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Understanding Career Progression
In my journey through both academic and professional realms, I've often encountered narratives showcasing successful individuals who climbed the corporate ladder to attain prestigious positions, like CEOs. Society frequently equates success with financial gain and rank. However, we seldom celebrate the daily victories and advancements of everyday individuals.
Dorit Sher emphasizes, "Your career is your business; it's time to manage it like a CEO." This leads us to ponder: why do individuals opt for lateral moves in their careers?
I recently came across an insightful article on Trello that sparked my curiosity, prompting me to summarize the key points visually. Below are several reasons why someone might choose a lateral shift in their career:
- To explore new opportunities
- To escape a toxic work environment
- To gain experience in a different industry
- To expand their professional network
- To enhance job satisfaction or benefits
Reflecting on Career Growth
? Does career advancement always have to follow a vertical trajectory?
? Could it also be horizontal, diagonal, or even reverse?
Consider my friend Lucy, who held a senior management position overseeing a team of engineers. Despite her efforts, her manager John seemed dissatisfied with her performance. Instead of providing constructive feedback or engaging in a meaningful discussion, he suggested she transition to another role, presenting it as an exciting opportunity. Lucy, eager for new challenges, accepted.
As time went by, Lucy adapted well to her new responsibilities. However, John hired Adam to fill her previous role, effectively replacing her without any transparent communication.
? Why do you think this occurred?
? What would you have done differently in Lucy's position?
? Did John fulfill his responsibilities as Lucy’s manager and leader?
In contrast, my friend Prasad began his career as a software developer. After a period of discontent with coding, he found excitement in his ideas for enhancing system performance. He shared his aspirations with Lucy, who facilitated his transition into a software architecture role after creating an opening. Prasad thrived in his new position.
? What differences did you observe between Lucy and Prasad’s career transitions?
? How do you think these moves influenced their overall well-being?
? Who do you believe felt more fulfilled?
When individuals take charge of their lateral career shifts based on their interests, it often leads to remarkable outcomes for both the organization and their personal satisfaction. Conversely, when these changes are enforced by external pressures, it can result in feelings of demotion, disinterest, and dissatisfaction.
Choose the path that resonates with you, rather than the one others expect you to follow.
In conclusion, no career move is inherently right or wrong. As long as your career brings you joy and contributes positively to your life, embrace it, explore, and pursue the direction that aligns with your aspirations. After all, we are the architects of our own journeys.
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The first video, "Your Career Path Doesn't Have to Be a Straight Line," discusses the various routes one can take in their professional journey and the value of non-linear progressions.
The second video, "Is 'UP' the only way? Horizontal career development as an alternative when you're stuck in your career," explores the benefits of lateral career movements and how they can revitalize your professional life.