After you’ve been in a role for a decent amount of time it can feel like you have learned all that there is to learn. But that’s not to say that you’ve learned all you can from the company and the people that work there.
If you feel stuck in your current job, it’s easy to start daydreaming about all of the other awesome opportunities that might be out there. The fantasy of a new company, new team, new role and new manager can be invigorating and motivating. But don’t forget what brought you to your current company in the first place. It’s likely you once daydreamed about the very role you’re in or the company you currently work for.
Your feelings of being stuck are, of course, valid. After you’ve been in a role for a decent amount of time it can feel like you have learned all that there is to learn. But that’s not to say that you’ve learned all you can from the company and the people that work there. So, instead of looking elsewhere for a new job, here are a few ideas to pivot the one you currently have.
Try a New Team
If you’re really set that you’re over your current position, start talking to your manager and HR about internal transfers. Companies spend thousands of dollars to recruit someone, so it’s likely they will want to retain you even if that means it’s in a different capacity. Start with your manager and layout your ideal plan. If you have a team or industry in mind, tell them. If not, discuss what might be a good move given your longer-term career goals. While your desire to moe roles isn’t what they will want to hear, most managers ultimately want their direct reports to succeed.
Once you’ve cleared things with your manager, talk about what the next steps look like. It could be a meeting with the other team’s manager, or you could have to go through HR. And remember, be patient. Even if there is an open role on the team you’d like to move to, internal transfers won’t be immediate.
Discuss a Promotion
If you feel like you could still advance your knowledge through your team, its members, and your manager, then open up the conversation about what a promotion would entail. Some companies have strict guidelines that need to be met in order to be eligible, while others rely more heavily on the manager’s discretion. They may also have specific times of the year where promotions are considered.
By having the discussion, you will know what you need to work on in the coming months in order to be considered once that time rolls around. It’s also a good way to have an informal check-in with your manager and express to them that you feel you could be learning more by taking on more.
Take on a New Project
If you love your team and a promotion isn’t on the table just yet, volunteer to take the lead on a new project. Not only will you be able to pick up new knowledge, but you’re putting the spotlight on yourself for career advancement down the line.
Again, have a chat with your manager about your feelings surrounding your current role and how you’d like to take on something new to challenge yourself. It’s likely they’ll love that you’re taking initiative and will either give you the green light or suggest other ways that you can contribute differently to the team.
So, instead of perusing job listings and thinking about greener pastures, talk to your current company. While it’s not always possible to make an internal move or advance your career within the confines of your team, putting all of your cards on the table is a great way to ensure you’re getting the most out of the opportunity at hand.
