Understanding lateral vs. vertical career moves

Many college students often focus on getting hired after they graduate, but it’s important not to forget the big picture. What does your ideal career path look like in the period after you graduate? Where do you see yourself after five or 10 years of working full time? A career growth plan has multiple elements, but most changes fall into two categories: horizontal (lateral) and vertical career growth.

Both lateral and vertical career growth can help you expand your options and experiences, and it’s up to you to decide which options provide the ladder you want. Let’s talk more about the differences between the two options to build into your career development plan.

Many people associate career growth with climbing the corporate ladder. They think growth means getting promoted to their boss’s level and then moving up from there. However, growth could also mean: 

• ·Moving to another department
• Taking on a new role within your department 
• Stepping into a similar position at a different company

This is what’s known as a lateral — or horizontal — career move.

An employee in social media marketing might, for example, apply for a job in media buying or public relations within the same company. This would allow them to apply some of their general competencies while learning a new skill set in a role they might enjoy a little more.

Similarly, an employee might leave a small company and work for a large enterprise with the same job title. By working for a different company and potentially in a different industry, the employee would gain broader expertise.

There are several reasons to pursue horizontal career moves — especially when you are starting out in your career. Here are a few of those reasons why these moves may be more valuable to you:

• Learn new skills — Gain experience working with different teams and building your experience within the company.
• Find a job you love — By exploring different positions, you can more knowledgeably decide on a career path you are passionate about.
• Become a better job candidate — You can apply for more diverse job opportunities after growing your skills.
• Prepare for vertical moves — Learning about the different aspects of a department better positions you to lead within the company someday.

Horizontal moves can also potentially increase your value within an organization. They show that you are committed to staying and are open to job changes as needed.

While a horizontal career move can have benefits, there are also potential drawbacks. One issue may be pay. A horizontal change might not bring the salary increase that taking a position higher up the organizational chart would. However, if you consider a lateral move an investment in your future, you are potentially deferring your raise until later on when your career grows.

A vertical move might keep you in the same department but increase your responsibilities and power within the organizational chart. For example, an employee might become a team leader if they show promise meeting deadlines and managing projects. From there, they could become a junior manager, then a senior manager and beyond.

Vertical career moves are often considered desirable, but they aren’t for everyone. Know the pros and cons of a potential promotion before you accept it. In some cases, the shift in responsibility (e.g., managing a team rather than producing the work) won’t lead to the same level of fulfillment.

If you want to move up the next rung on your organizational ladder, consider what might be necessary to get there. For example, in healthcare and nursing, you may need to earn another degree. That can be tough to juggle while working full time, although online nursing degrees offer flexibility so you can study on your schedule. Still, going back to school involves time and financial cost factors to keep in mind.

One of the main benefits of vertical career growth is the salary. In most cases, the higher you are on the organizational chart, the more money you make.

You also enjoy more decision-making abilities, a privilege born from experience and expertise. In addition to work experience (including, potentially, a few horizontal career moves), people gain such knowledge through education. Many people seek out bachelor’s and master’s degrees (such as business degrees) to pursue vertical career growth.

A vertical move is often considered a reward for employees who achieve results within companies. However, there can be perceived drawbacks. Here are a few reasons why you might not accept a vertical career move and opt for something else:

• You aren’t ready. You might need more experience and workplace skills before you can successfully step into the role.
• The promotion changes your day-to-day tasks. Some people don’t want to become leaders because it means they would spend less time working with customers or taking on projects.
• You don’t want to stay on your career path. Your dream job might be in another field, which means you don’t want to advance in this one.

Your career path is your own, which means it’s OK if you prefer a lateral versus vertical move at this time. Here are some questions to guide your decision:

• Are you happy in your current field?
• Do you like the company you work for?
• Do you see yourself stepping into your boss’s role or other leadership roles?
• Which skills do you desire?
• What changes in your industry or field excite you?
• What is your dream job and what does it take to achieve it?

One of the best ways to make a clear-headed decision on horizontal versus vertical growth is to think about your goals — not the expectations of others. Don’t compare yourself to your peers, co-workers or friends. Do what is right for you alone. This could mean staying within the company but changing departments or pursuing a master’s degree to prepare for vertical growth.

It might also involve taking a similar job at another company that offers the same pay, but additional flexibility to meet changing needs at home.

Finding career success is about more than just moving between jobs. It also takes a good amount of personal development, strategic planning and continuous learning. Whichever direction you’re headed, following best practices can help you maintain a healthy perspective on your career:

• Embrace continuous learning. Even if you plan on sticking with your current role or career field, continuous learning with certificates or relevant degrees can provide you with skills to stay competitive. University of Phoenix offers a wide range of certificates that can help you stay abreast of developments in fields like healthcare, information technology and more.
• Network strategically. A robust network can be helpful toward career success, whether you plan on climbing the corporate ladder or moving laterally. No matter which stage of your career you’re in, University of Phoenix can connect you with mentors in your field and other alumni.
• Set clear goals. Whether you want diversified experiences through a lateral move or a vertical climb, setting clear, achievable goals is essential. Break down long-term career ideals into smaller, actionable steps and regularly assess your progress. This strategic approach won’t just help maintain focus and motivation; it will help you track necessary requirements — including additional education you may need through the University of Phoenix.
• Solicit and act on feedback. Feedback is a powerful tool for improvement and growth, but you have to use it. Seek out constructive criticism from peers, supervisors, instructors and mentors as a foundation for improvement. That includes asking which potential UOPX programs you may need to address gaps in your skills or knowledge.
• Prioritize work-life balance. Ultimately, remember that we work to live — not live to work. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for sustained success. Fortunately, online learning programs at UOPX offer a convenient way to grow your skills and gain knowledge without sacrificing work or family commitments. Learn at your own pace and slot continued education into your schedule, not someone else’s.

University of Phoenix offers plenty of options for busy professionals who want to leverage their education for career growth, whether that’s a temporary sideways motion or to reach for the next rung on the ladder. If you’re considering educational opportunities as part of your next career move, request information about our programs today.

Whatever your career journey holds, University of Phoenix can help you prepare. Explore the following resources to help you on your professional path.

• Career Services for Life^® commitment: Available to UOPX students and graduates, this offering comprises complimentary career coaching, including guidance on how to build a personal brand and write a resumé.
• Free career resources: Browse a range of downloadable guides and templates to help you optimize your LinkedIn^® profile, get ready for a job interview and write a resumé and cover letter.
• Career With Confidence™ newsletter: Get career insights every week via UOPX’s LinkedIn newsletter.

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