For years we were told that the only meaning of work was “promotion.” You were supposed to climb upward, become a foreman, a manager, and then a director. If you stood still, it meant failure.
But the world has changed. Today, more and more people are asking: “Do I really want to manage people and Excel tables, or do I just want to get better and better at what I do?”. A choice has emerged between the traditional promotion ladder and lateral development. Let’s find out which path is for you.
1. Vertical advancement: the classic ladder
This is the traditional path. Imagine a ladder: each rung means a higher position, more power, but also more responsibility for others.
What does it consist of?
You start as a line worker, become a group leader, then a coordinator or operations manager.
Who is it for?
For people with leadership ambition who like to organize the work of others, can make difficult decisions and are not afraid of the stress of responsibility.
Who it is NOT for:
For people who love concrete, physical tasks and hate bureaucracy and human conflict resolution.
Pros:
✅ Higher wages and prestige.
✅ Real impact on company operations.
✅ Development of soft skills (management, negotiation).
Minuses:
❌ Much more stress and risk of burnout.
❌ Work often “goes home with you.”
❌ Less time to do the professional tasks you enjoy.
2. Lateral development: a career like a chess game
This is called horizontal development. Instead of moving upward, you move sideways to become a “multitasker.” In this model, you don’t change your position in the hierarchy, but you do change your skill set.
What does it consist of?
You work in a warehouse, but do a forklift course (Heftruck/Reachtruck). Or, as a production worker, you learn to operate complex CNC machines or move into the quality department.
Who is it for?
For experts and specialists. For people who want to have “expertise in hand”, value diversity and want to be independent in the labor market.
Who it is NOT for:
For people who need formal authority and a prestigious title on a business card to feel satisfaction.
Pros:
✅ Tremendous flexibility – as a specialist you can find work anywhere.
✅ Less stress associated with managing people.
✅ Steady increase in hourly rate with new certifications.
Downsides:
❌ You may reach a financial “glass ceiling” on a position.
❌ Requires constant learning and getting out of your comfort zone.
What to choose?
There is no wrong way. The most important thing is to know what gives you energy. If you enjoy seeing an efficient team – aim for the ladder. If your passion is to be the best in your field and you want to be “irreplaceable” – choose lateral development.
At our agency, we support both of these paths. We help with professional courses (chess!) and promote the best to leaders (ladder!).
If you would like us to advise you on which path is right for you, check out our dedicated training (tailored just for you).
Visit our Facebook and LinkedIn where we also post valuable content!
Sources:
- Gallup Institute (Gallup),
- Harvard Business Review,
- LinkedIn Learning Reports.