Going Up or Going Out

The cream always rises to the top, or so the saying goes. Today's organizations are becoming flatter and so is our world.  This poses a problem for those career enthusiasts who wan to "climb the corporate ladder", which has fewer rungs.

Where do you go if you can't go up?  Is the answer out? 

Sometimes yes, sometimes no, it depends on what you need. 

If you are not finding job satisfaction or you've reached one of the highest rungs, consider adding side projects to your plate.  These could be for skill development (ie more challenging work), fulfillment, additional income, personal brand development, or other reasons. 

Side projects could be writing, speaking, consulting, photography, graphic arts, music...or any other interest that burns within you. Is it entrepreneurship?  Kind of.  Managing your career is entrepreneurial too.  (visit Tom Peter's blog for more about this!) 

On #MBAChat last night, the question was asked:

Perhaps we shouldn't be thinking about sequential careers, one job leading us to the next job.  What if we considered our career a mix of different jobs we hold simultaneously?  

I like this thought, first because I wrote it, second, because it provides insurance for WHEN we are let go from a job. 

Does it take time, well, yes and I think that will be the reason most won't buy into the concept.  Our personal time is precious and it is highly valued by certain upcoming generations.

What are your thoughts about finding professional satisfaction from adding work to your portfolio?

Comments

[Lilian]

Hi Hannah,

Thanks for following up with this post and for yesterday's chat.

[Hajj E. Flemings]

Hannah,

Thanks for your participation in our #mbachat last night it was invaluable you brought some great incite to the conversation. Great follow-up article as well. I am going to share it with my community.