WCT #83: Unveil 6 transformative steps to pivot your career upwards when promotions feel out of reach (and why they work)
Three Minute Read
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Do you feel stagnant in your career? Are you not advancing at the pace you’d like? You’re not alone. Many people I speak with are in the same place. You may be dedicated, hardworking, and have consistently shown up, doing your best, but the path upwards seems a bit murky. The prospect of a promotion appears distant, not because of a lack of effort on your part, but perhaps due to the limited opportunities within your company.
This is a recurring theme among people I speak with. There seems to be a glut of talent at the upper ranks, especially in consulting businesses, into which people who would normally be rising should be advancing. But, because of business conditions or a top-heavy management structure from which people aren’t retiring or otherwise moving on, there are only so many senior roles open.
This scenario can feel disheartening, but it's far from a dead end. In fact, it's an opportunity to reassess, realign, and reinvigorate your career path with fresh strategies. What can you do?
Broaden Your Skill Set. Embrace this time as a golden opportunity to learn and grow. Dive into new skills and knowledge areas that interest you, whether through online courses, workshops, or even a side project related to your field. This initiative not only enriches your professional profile but also ignites a newfound passion for your work, making you a more versatile and valuable team member. Plus, it's incredibly satisfying to conquer new challenges and add those accomplishments to your repertoire.
Seek Feedback and Mentorship. Often, we're closer to our next breakthrough than we think. Engaging in open, honest conversations with your supervisors or seeking a mentor can provide invaluable insights. This dialogue can highlight your strengths, areas for improvement, and unseen opportunities within or outside your current organization. A mentor can offer guidance, support, and even advocate for you, opening doors you might not have considered.
Strengthen Your Network. The power of networking cannot be overstated. Start by strengthening relationships within your current and prior companies and then branch out to industry events, online forums, and professional groups. Networking is not just about finding new opportunities; it's about building relationships that provide support, advice, and knowledge. Through these connections, you may discover new avenues for advancement or opportunities that align better with your career goals.
Make Your Achievements Known. Sometimes, the key to unlocking opportunities lies in visibility. Regularly communicate your achievements and the value you bring to your team and the broader organization. This doesn't mean boasting about every minor task but highlighting significant contributions and the positive impact of your work. By doing so, you ensure that decision-makers are aware of your potential and might consider you for future projects or roles that align with your career aspirations.
Consider Lateral Moves. Growth isn't always upward. Sometimes, moving sideways into a different department or role can offer new challenges, learning opportunities, and a fresh perspective on your career. Lateral moves can also position you more favorably for future promotions, as you'll gain a broader understanding of the organization and develop a more diverse skill set.
Start looking outside of your company. In the face of stalled career progression, sometimes you must explore opportunities outside your firm. Perhaps your current industry isn’t the most dynamic or fastest growing? And your skills could be applied to businesses that are enjoying more growth and have more promise. Take time to explore opportunities you see on job boards or come up in conversations with your contacts or recruiters. It always pays to have your ears open to possibilities. And it’s often by switching companies that your full market value is realized. Sometimes, that’s hard to achieve when you’ve remained at one company for some time.
The Bottom Line
Navigating a period where promotions seem out of reach can be challenging, but it's far from impossible. By broadening your skill set, seeking feedback, strengthening your network, making your achievements known, considering lateral moves, and testing the market, you transform obstacles into stepping stones toward your career aspirations. Remember, every phase of your professional journey offers unique lessons and opportunities for growth. Embrace these moments with optimism and determination, and you'll find that the path ahead is filled with potential.
I help people land amazing jobs fast and manage their career journeys through coaching and advising. I also transform resumes and LinkedIn profiles to attract more interviews and offers. Learn more about my career coaching and contact me or request a free 15-minute Career Solutions Call.