If you’ve been with your respective employer for some time and feel that you’ve hit the proverbial glass ceiling, all is not lost. At times like these it may not be in your best interest to look up, but rather to decide to make the lateral career move.

A lateral career move can be defined simply as a job that keeps the same position title and pay while bringing in a different set of responsibilities.

Many may view such a change in career course as a lull or even the kiss of death for their stay within a company, but that is no longer the case since companies typically do “in-house” hiring and groom employees for upper management by giving them a wide range of experience at different levels and positions.

If you have been with the same company for years and are disgruntled due to the fact that you did not get the promotion you had your sights set on, do not be discouraged. There are only so many upper management positions available and you may be forced to wait until someone else ahead of you retires or is promoted. The lateral career move will help you in this waiting period as you acquire more skills and increase your stock in the company’s eyes as an employee who is multi-faceted.

The benefits of making a lateral change are numerous, but here are a few noteworthy advantages.

An opportunity to:

• Undertake a new and different challenge

• Add much needed skills

• Learn about other areas of the company

• Network and work with other employees

• Receive increased recognition that could lead to promotions

As with anything else, there can be a downside to the lateral career move as well, and it’s best to look before you leap. Some problems faced are:

• Your salary could remain the same or even reduced

• If you are unhappy with the company, this probably will not solve your issues

• You may need to learn new skills

• It could slow down your career path

Before making this momentous career choice you need to make sure this is the correct path for you within that particular company. Some questions you may need to ask yourself are:

• Are you prepared to wait for a promotion?

• Would you be willing to move out of town or state for a higher paying job?

• Could you take this time to hone more skills by taking classes?

• Do you envision yourself staying with the company for the long haul?

In today’s business world the lateral career move is no longer a last resort. In many cases, it is merely a stepping stone to your goals. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of your unique situation and even discuss the matter with your boss before making the final leap.

Keep in mind that many employers will view your interest in staying with the company and exploring new areas as a bonus. Once you are knowledgeable of the new position your skill set will be invaluable.

The business of today wants an employer who possesses the skills and knowledge to deal with a wide range of tasks within the company, and that is why the lateral career move is a very viable option in today’s market.