Career growth is rarely a straight line: Make an impact and find fulfillment!

As I reflect on the countless conversations I've had throughout my career with professionals of all levels, one of the many things I've realized is that career growth is rarely a straight line. From a young age, we're conditioned to equate growth with moving up the ladder, earning more money, and gaining prestigious titles. But what if there's a different perspective – one that leads to a more fulfilling and successful career?

The truth is, a conventional linear career path is more often the exception than the rule. While some fields have relatively straightforward progressions, it's important to realize there isn't a one-size-fits-all formula for growth, and this applies not only to careers, but to our happiness as well.

Shifting our perspective

Career growth can evolve in various ways that don't fit the mold for traditional paths. Take a software engineer, for example. The assumption may be that you start as a junior engineer, then become a senior engineer, then probably a team lead, and the next logical role might be manager. However, not everyone is interested in being a manager. Growth in this particular discipline can take different forms, like mastering new programming languages, switching from front-end to back-end development, or becoming a subject-matter-expert (SME). While this may not always translate to a more senior title, it does lead to intellectual growth, expanded expertise, more money, and ultimately increased impact for the company.

Focus on impact

Making yourself indispensable will benefit your career aspirations more than chasing titles ever will. The winning move is to prioritize roles that make the most significant contribution to your organization. Do this and you’ll find that when you consistently deliver outsized value, the recognition, opportunities, promotions, and financial rewards will inevitably follow. 

This applies across career stages. When you feel stalled or stuck in a role, consider whether you're still contributing to your fullest potential. Are you actively seeking opportunities for skill growth, or have you become complacent? Sometimes, the best way to move forward is by exploring new challenges within your current organization.

Here’s a graphic for how we think about career growth at Relay Payments . Feel free to use this as a resource you can adapt for your organization’s communications. 

What about compensation?

Even though I say you shouldn't focus on money, I appreciate that compensation is extremely important. After all, we come to work every day to earn a salary, not to volunteer our time. When considering whether an offer is compelling, evaluate the entire package: the compensation, (including benefits and company equity), your impression of the team you'll be working with, plus the industry and problems you'll solve. A combination of competitive compensation and alignment with the company's culture most often leads to the long-term job satisfaction we all seek.

How to foster career growth

Employers play a crucial role in facilitating career growth. To promote a culture of growth and development, organizations should:

Share the Playbook: Be transparent about the company's growth philosophy, promotion criteria, and the traits and characteristics valued in high performers.

Prioritize Impact: Recognize and reward team members based on their contributions and impact on the organization rather than merely tenure or job titles.

Foster Open Communication: Maintain open channels for career discussions, ensuring that team members can have regular conversations about their growth and aspirations.

Select the Right Leadership Team: Emphasize the importance of not only choosing the right industry, but also aligning with a leadership team that inspires trust, respect, and the opportunity to learn and grow.

The goal is fulfillment

The journey of career growth is a winding path with its own unique twists and turns for each individual. While it may be tempting to fixate on titles and promotions, a focus on impact, skill development, and creating value is the true key to a successful and fulfilling career.

Whether you're just starting out or have several years of experience, remember that the most rewarding growth often lies in the unexpected places and opportunities that come your way when you prioritize making a difference. So, don't just chase titles; chase the chance to make a lasting impact and become an invaluable asset to your organization.

I'd love to hear your thoughts on your own career journey – or how career progression is considered at your organization.