The Brutal Truth About Career Ladders: They’re Dead – Now What?

Remember when we were told that hard work and loyalty would be rewarded?

What a lie! How did I fall for it?!?

The traditional career ladder is dead. And if you are still trying to climb it, you are setting yourself up for disappointment.

The corporate world has changed. So we need to do the same.

The days of linear promotions, predictable paths, and steady climbs are over.

Roles are becoming more fluid and the competition is higher than ever.

Companies are more interested in versatility (aka our multi-disciplinary skills) and innovation than they are in how long you stuck around.

If you are not evolving at work, you are getting left behind by the day.

Why the ladder no longer works?

1. Rigid paths don’t work in a fluid world

2. Skills matter more than titles

3. Promotions are no longer guaranteed

What you should do instead?

1. Embrace lateral moves - they allow you to build a diverse skill set, gain new experiences, and position yourself as a more versatile and valuable employee

2. Become a full-stack employee (yes, shameless plug) - the ones who can juggle multiple skills and adapt to different roles

3. Create your own opportunities - identify gaps in your team, propose new projects, or start a side hustle

4. Network with a purpose - surround yourself with the right people

5. Be your own advocate - no one else is going to do this for you forever

The corporate ladder may be dead. But that doesn’t mean your career has to stall.

Get ahead of others and start already!

Let’s go get it,

Mary