Can a step back help my long-term career?

Climbing the corporate ladder isn’t the same as it once was. The days when working for the same company for decades have been replaced by an average of over six companies throughout a working life. What was once viewed as ‘job-hopping’ is now often regarded as ambition to advance one’s career - providing there aren’t too many jobs on your CV with short durations and no explanation.

Staying with an organisation 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 associated with taking a step back in your career, is psychological. Your responsibilities will be less in comparison 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 post has a strong long-term potential within an organisation that has an enviable reputation in your industry which could boost your overall career prospects.

Consider what opportunities the position can offer you in terms of learning new skills, experiencing a different environment and working practice. Use the skills and knowledge that you have acquired 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 organisation, a very small number of executives today have spent their entire career following this route.

Career experts predict that in the future, the senior positions in organisations 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 determine your move after that. And then play it out.

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