Lateral career growth is rarely considered a form of progression. When we think of career progression, we picture climbing upward. Yet growth is not always vertical. It can be more meaningful to step sideways.
Beyond the obvious: A new lens on growth
Varsha, a driven young professional, believed success meant moving up. Each promotion felt like progress—until it didn’t. She hit a wall. Not the glass ceiling, but an inner wall: the next title felt empty. Exhaustion followed. On the verge of burnout, she took a sabbatical.
The pause gave her space to reflect. She had questions about where she needed to head next. She spoke to her mentor.
“I have to either climb upwards or change companies,” she shared.
Her mentor asked a perspective-shifting question: “Why should growth be upwards and not sideways?”
At first, she was skeptical. Lateral career growth sounded like detours. Eventually she came around. She learnt that many of her skills are transferable. She explored roles beyond the ladder climb and discovered new avenues where she could contribute, learn, and grow without chasing titles.
Months later, she found a role in a new function. The work energized her. She felt meaning in her contribution again. The detour turned to be a breakthrough.
Popular career narratives glorify linear growth. However, many professionals have built fulfilling paths through lateral moves. Stepping sideways unlocks new potential, broadens perspective and creates opportunities that a vertical climb alone cannot offer.
For your reflection
- What would meaningful progression look like in your career?
- What would it look like to step sideways and explore new opportunities?
“Sideways moves can lead to the most unexpected and fulfilling opportunities.” – Helen Tupper and Sarah Ellis, ‘Squiggly Career’