Succeeding in lateral mobility

The current environment makes the traditional model of vertical career progression more difficult. To continue advancing within large multinational companies, everyone must accept pursuing a “boundaryless career” (or carrière sans limites in French, though Americans have a knack for inventing catchier terms) and exploring lateral choices.

Embracing lateral mobility means accepting a change in status, role, or sometimes a position very different from the one you previously held. This could mean leaving a managerial role, or a manager-of-managers role, for a more operational or specialist position. While this shift may feel natural to some, drawn to novelty and discovery, it is often a moment of deep self-reflection and can quickly become anxiety-inducing, especially if the move is imposed by your leaders.

So how do you identify interesting lateral positions, accept a new role even if it doesn’t perfectly match you, and be ready to seize the right opportunity when it arises?

Accept your anger and apprehension

If a job change within your company is imposed on you, your first reaction will likely be anger, or at least apprehension about the change. This is a normal reaction that should be acknowledged and expressed. Start by releasing physical tension: if you’ve always wanted to try boxing or kickboxing, now is the time!

You can also write down everything that hurts or worries you in this situation: “X doesn’t recognize your talent” or “if only X trusted me.” If your anger doesn’t subside, consult a coach, mentor, or business partner immediately. Their support will cost far less than a resignation or sick leave!

Lateral mobility helps you develop your talents

Marius Kloppers, former CEO of BHP Billiton, one of the world’s largest mining companies, shares:
"I knew a new experience was a good thing, but honestly, I never thought about building a career. I’ve seen people accept a position just to tick a box and move on. I avoided that. Basically, I try to take every role that interests me and challenges me."

Be ready to accept your new role

Once you feel prepared to discuss the situation calmly with your manager and/or HR, start by defining what you are willing to accept: say yes to the proposed position or consider other opportunities.

Manage your ego and stay open to the proposals you receive. A few sessions of mindful meditation can help. Take care of yourself!

At the same time, manage your digital image, as internal leaders and HR often use the internet to form opinions. Define your strategy: what do you want to showcase about yourself, and where? LinkedIn and Viadeo are the primary platforms, but Twitter, Instagram, and possibly Facebook and Pinterest can also be used. Check your online reputation by searching your full name on Google and Bing.

Stay alert to the market

Now that you’re settled in your new role, focus on areas where you can add value. Keep an ear to the mobility market. According to coaches and work psychologists, our motivation and self-esteem start to suffer after about three years in a role that doesn’t suit us.

Build your storytelling around your current position and understand how it fits into your overall career plan. You’ll need to stay vigilant about your vitality. This new job may be less visible, less inspiring, or less motivating than your previous one, but you must take care of your physical and mental health, and especially your mindset, to seize the next opportunity and stay at your best!