In today’s job market, if you have lost a position—particularly mid-management level, sometimes stepping back can propel you forward in the long run.
A buyer’s market
It’s an employer’s market, to state the obvious. If you find yourself repositioning in today’s work world, you face some realities:
- The “perfect” candidate is the one having similar industry or functional experience … someone who has been there and done that, rather than someone who will grow into it.
- Communication skills are essential. Many finalists are eliminated after performing poorly when asked to briefly explain (orally and/or in writing) how they might handle a situation.
- Managers are needed who can lead teams and oversee daily operations. It’s not enough to have specialized skills or be a “supervisor”—the manager is expected to participate in the work of the group while staying tuned in to the organizational big picture.
Anticipate the doubts
In a climate like this, some transitioning managers certainly have prospects; many are telling me they do not or do not want to wait for them. And many are willing to step back to get a foot in the door. If this is you, are you prepared for the questions of employers who may view you as overqualified for a one-step-back position? In my conversations with hiring folks, here’s what they want to know—and the three points you need to make— if you’re going for a position that’s a step back:
- You really do want the job in spite of the fact that it appears to be a step backward on your career ladder.
- You can live with a fair compensation package for the position being offered, and you recognize the potential gap with what you had been making.
- You expect to prove yourself just like everyone else, and you won’t be coming in wearing remnants of your former “rank” on your sleeve.
When you feel you have exhausted your possibilities for a parallel or better move, sometimes getting back on the career ladder and starting upward movement again can be a good thing. If you’ve prepared for the challenge, you might have chances for revitalization and development that might never have been yours in a cradle-to-grave job.
Your success might hinge on being able to consider options ranging from an entrepreneurial solution to taking one step back to make future steps forward in the corporate world or a larger established organization. When your employment situation stabilizes, keep in mind five keys to having the luxury of choice in the future: managing your career, adapting to reality, pursuing training, networking, and controlling your personal finances.
And when you get there, go back to the first key. Proactive versus reactive. You explored your career fit, you found it, and you got it. Now keep it until you’re ready to make a change. Yes, it can be forward, sideways or backward. I believe that your having maximum control is the difference.
Photo: outOfwave
