Facing Career Plateaus? Decide Whether You Should Keep Trying or Move On
Hitting a plateau in your career can be frustrating. Maybe your work feels repetitive, you’re no longer learning, or promotions have stalled. Whatever profession you are in, career stagnation raises a key question: Should you stay and try to grow where you are, or look for a new opportunity? The answer depends on your goals, environment, and mindset. Here’s how to choose a direction when you are at a crossroads.
Reflect Honestly on What’s Missing
Before making any big moves, take time to evaluate why you feel stuck. Are you bored with your tasks? Do you lack advancement opportunities? Is there tension with leadership, or are you simply craving change? Getting clear about what’s not working—and what you truly want—will help guide your next steps. Journaling, talking with a mentor, or taking a career assessment can provide clarity.
Explore Growth Opportunities in Your Current Role
Sometimes, growth is possible without leaving. Ask your supervisor about new projects, cross-training opportunities, or leadership development. Could you mentor a junior colleague? Take on a special initiative? Even small shifts in responsibility can reinvigorate your day-to-day tasks and show decision-makers that you’re fully engaged. If you work in a large organization, consider lateral moves into different departments to gain new skills and perspectives.
Upskill or Reskill
If you’re feeling stale, learning something new can re-energize your mindset and position you for advancement. This could mean earning a new certification, attending workshops, or taking online courses in areas like leadership, technology, or industry trends. Investing in yourself signals that you’re proactive and serious about your career growth—whether you stay or move on.
Test the Waters Outside Your Current Job
If your efforts to grow within your role are unsuccessful—or your current environment lacks support—it might be time to explore new options. Start networking, updating your resume, and applying to positions that align with your long-term goals. Sometimes, a change in scenery is exactly what’s needed to reignite your passion and take your career to the next level.
Trust Your Instincts and Be Strategic
A plateau isn’t always a sign to jump ship—it could be an invitation to re-engage where you are. But if you’ve tried to grow and consistently hit roadblocks, don’t be afraid to move on. The key is making a thoughtful, strategic decision rather than one based purely on frustration or burnout.
At G.A. Rogers & Associates, we care about our job candidates, our results, and our relationships. We take the time to get to know each person, enabling us to make the best career matches. Visit our job board to browse the latest positions today.
