She Strengthens

Unlocking the Power of Lateral Career Moves

As I reflect on my time at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, I’m reminded of the annual United Way drive, which was met with groans and reluctance from my colleagues. But when I was tasked with leading the effort, I saw an opportunity to put my journalistic skills to the test and prove a concept that would later become the foundation of my book, The Career Lattice.

From Skeptic to Believer

I teamed up with a designer to create a mock newspaper showcasing the impact of United Way charities on local social and educational issues. The result was a compelling pitch that resonated with my cynical colleagues. But it was my creative approach to the traditional newsroom bake sale that truly won them over. By sewing vintage-style aprons as prizes and setting up a beautiful display, I helped raise the most money ever from the newsroom.

The Unexpected Payoff

A few weeks later, I was summoned to the publisher’s office, where I learned that my mock newspaper had impressed her and her peers at a regional meeting. I had unknowingly made my boss’s boss look good, which in turn made me look good to the entire management team. This experience not only validated my concept for The Career Lattice but also opened doors to new opportunities.

The Art of Lateral Career Moves

A lateral move is taking on a job that offers new challenges, skills, and connections, but not necessarily more money or prestige. It’s about widening your professional network and gaining new experiences that can eventually lead to career advancement. Many companies are now offering lateral moves as a way to retain talented employees.

Deciphering Lateral Moves

So, how can you identify a lateral move? Look for opportunities that:

• Take you to a different department or function
• Offer new skills training or on-the-job experience
• Allow you to represent your team or department on another project or team
• May be short-term or permanent
• Don’t necessarily come with a promotion or significant pay increase

Evaluating Lateral Moves

Before making a lateral move, ask yourself:

• Will I meet new people who can introduce me to new projects and opportunities?
• Will I work on projects that are key to the company’s growth and profitability?
• Are the new skills I’ll learn crucial to the company’s success?

By considering these questions, you can determine whether a lateral move aligns with your career goals and sets you up for future success.

Unlocking New Opportunities

In my case, the United Way assignment led to new connections, skills, and opportunities. It also gave me the confidence to write The Career Lattice, which has helped countless professionals navigate their careers. By embracing lateral moves, you can unlock new possibilities and take your career to the next level.