Some myths, like Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster, are fun and harmless. Others are not to be taken so lightly, though; for example, the negative myths that surround a lateral move. Universal Events’ leaders would like to address some of these perceptions and present a more balanced perspective.
First, there’s the myth that a lateral move does nothing to move your career forward. If you think about it, this doesn’t hold up to inspection. Anytime you are taking on new responsibilities, you are becoming a more competent and trustworthy professional.
Second, many people fear that a lateral move will cost them their current network connections, or at the very least they will lose some of the esteem they have earned. Universal Events’ high achievers allow that this might be the case – but only if you let it happen. Staying in touch with your network is always a challenge (and would be if you were moving up the ladder as well). If your circle shrinks, it’s not because you accepted a new position.
Finally, some executives believe that moving laterally will not result in any increased responsibility, and is therefore a waste of time. We at Universal Events have a hard time seeing how taking on a new role would absolve anyone of being responsible not only for their new job, but also keeping in touch with their old department to make sure things continue to run smoothly. That alone ups your accountability.
Lateral moves are simply another kind of promotion in our collective Universal Events opinion. Treat them with the respect they deserve.
