Staying with an organization that offers little in the way of career progression will do your career more harm than good. And, if you have been banging on the door of management but feel that you have exhausted your chances of promotion, then it is natural that you will be looking for the opportunity to progress elsewhere.
Therefore, to get ahead, there may be times when you will have to take one-step backwards before moving two steps forward, regardless of whether you are staying in the same field of changing to a different career.
Much of the negativity accompanying with taking a step back in your career, is psychological. Your responsibilities will be less compared to your previous job and you will probably be earning less money.
But, earning less now could put you in line for a quicker rise to the top, especially if you move to a company renowned for allowing a fast-track path to management.
Look at whether the job post has a strong long-term potential within an organization that has an enviable reputation in your industry which could boost your overall career prospects.
Consider what opportunities the position can provide you in terms of learning new skills, experiencing a different environment and working practice. Use the skills and knowledge that you have gained throughout your career to make you an invaluable asset to your colleagues and management in your new position.
Whereas the road to the top used to involve working your way up through the ranks in the same organization, only about 10% of chief executives in the UK today have spent their entire career following this route.
Career experts anticipate that in the future, the senior positions in organizations will be held by people who have come from more diverse backgrounds.
Choosing your career options is like playing chess. Approach your choices with caution. Asses your options. Tactfully envisage how your next career move will decide your move after that. And then play it out.
