As a new year gets underway, many professionals focus on their careers, particularly how they can take theirs to the next level. Often, this means securing a new position. However, what kind of job change is best may be up for debate.
If you’re trying to decide if a lateral or vertical move is best for your career in 2022, here’s what you need to know.
The Difference Between Vertical and Lateral Career Moves
The main difference between vertical and lateral career moves is the level of job you transition into compared to the one you leave. With vertical career moves, you usually land a position that equates to a promotion, regardless of whether you change companies or stay with your current employer. In most cases, you’ll advance up the organizational hierarchy, have more responsibilities, and secure a bigger paycheck.
With a lateral move, you also end up in a new job. However, the position of the role on an organizational chart, broader responsibility level, and pay rate tend to be highly similar to the job you held previously.
Usually, the goal of a lateral career move is to gain access to new career-boosting opportunities. For example, it can be a way to keep making progress after reaching the top of a more limited career path. Whether you have a supervisor that limits access to promotions or skill-building opportunities or initially chose a field that caps out lower than you’d like, a lateral can let you leverage your experience while repositioning your career.
Some use laterals to make a career change even if their original path had potential. Others use laterals purely to secure a role with a better employer, especially one with a reputation for supporting the professional development of its employees.
Deciding Between a Lateral and Vertical Career Move
Ultimately, both vertical and lateral career moves have merit. Typically, it’s best to consider your wider career goals to determine which option is best for your objectives.
If your goal is to keep moving forward on your current career path, a vertical move is usually your best target. However, that doesn’t mean a lateral can’t provide value. For instance, it could let you secure a role with an employer of choice, increasing your access to better opportunities in the future.
Previously, lateral moves were the simplest option for career changes. They allowed you to shift your professional trajectory, making a new path obtainable. Technically, that’s still true today. However, with a talent shortage, it isn’t always necessary if you have a strong skill set and enough potential.
Consider what you’re hoping to achieve, as well as the available paths that could make your goal a reality. Then, reflect on the virtues of each approach, ensuring you don’t overlook a possible benefit of heading in available directions.
Looking For Your Next Job? The Squires Group Can Help You Find the Right Fit!
Once you do that, you can launch a job search with the right targets in mind. Whether you’re interested in making a lateral or vertical career move in 2022, the team at The Squires Group can help. Our staff can help you explore a wide range of possibilities, ensuring your take your career in the best direction possible. Contact us to speak with one of our recruiters and learn more about our services today. Click here to explore current job opportunities and to apply!
