The Lateral Move Nobody Talks About—But Should!
Picture this: You’ve been in your current role for a few years, and while it’s comfortable, you feel… stuck. You’re eyeing a promotion, but it’s not happening anytime soon. A part of you is tempted to jump ship, but job hunting feels like a full-time job itself.
Sound familiar? Well, what if I told you that a lateral move—yes, a lateral career move—could be the secret weapon to reigniting your career? While it may not come with an immediate raise or a fancier title, it means more than just a sideways shuffle. It can open doors, expand your skill set, and even fast-track you to that dream promotion down the line.
Careers are not ladders. They are jungle gyms. You don’t have to climb up to get ahead. Sometimes, a step to the side is the smartest move you can make.
Adam Grant, Think Again
So, let’s break down what a lateral move means, why it might be the best decision you’ll ever make, and how to leverage it for long-term success.
What is a Lateral Move?
Before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s answer the big question: What does a lateral move mean?
A lateral move (also called a lateral job move) is when an employee transitions to a new role at the same level, rather than moving up the corporate ladder. It typically involves:
- A lateral transfer to a different department, team, or function.
- No immediate change in salary or seniority.
- Opportunities to gain new experiences, skills, and networks.
It’s important to note that lateral moves in career are not about settling—they’re about strategic growth.
Careers are a jungle gym, not a ladder. Ladders are limiting—jungle gyms offer more creative exploration.
Sheryl Sandberg, Lean In
Lateral Move vs. Vertical Move: Which One is Better?
Many professionals assume that the only career move worth making is an upward one. However, choosing between these two depends on where you are in your career and what your goals are.
Lateral Move Benefits:
- Expands your skill set across multiple domains.
- Helps you build a stronger, more versatile network.
- Increases your value in the job market.
- Provides fresh challenges and prevents burnout.
- Positions you better for future promotions.
Vertical Move Benefits:
- Higher salary and job title.
- More leadership responsibilities.
- Increased visibility within the company.
But here’s the kicker: Many employees who take lateral job moves end up leapfrogging their peers in promotions because they bring a wider range of experiences to the table.
Why Consider a Lateral Move in Your Career?
- You’re Feeling Stagnant in Your Current Role
A career lateral move can provide new learning opportunities and reignite your professional drive. - You Want to Gain Cross-Functional Expertise
If you’re aiming for leadership, understanding multiple business functions is crucial. A lateral transfer meaning moving to a new department can give you this experience. - Your Promotion Path is Blocked
Sometimes, the only way up is sideways. Making this move can position you for future growth. - You Want to Future-Proof Your Career
Industries evolve. A lateral recruitment opportunity may introduce you to a future-proof skill set.
As Cal Newport states in So Good They Can’t Ignore You, “If you want to love what you do, you must first build up rare and valuable skills.”
How to Make a Strategic Lateral Move
1. Identify Your Ultimate Career Goal
Before making a lateral change, ask yourself: “Where do I want to be in five years?”
2. Research Lateral Opportunities Within Your Company
Many organizations encourage lateral transfers as a way to retain talent. Look at open positions internally.
3. Build Relationships and Network
Most lateral job movement happens through internal referrals. Cultivate relationships across teams.
4. Develop Transferable Skills
Make yourself an ideal candidate by strengthening skills that are valuable across multiple roles.
Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become.
James Clear, Atomic Habits
Common Myths About Lateral Moves (And Why They’re Wrong!)
🚫 “Lateral moves are career stagnation.”
✅ Truth: They actually accelerate long-term career growth.
🚫 “Lateral transfers mean a lack of ambition.”
✅ Truth: They demonstrate strategic thinking and a willingness to gain diverse experiences that can accelerate career growth.
How to Make a Strategic Lateral Move
1. Identify Your Ultimate Career Goal
Before making a lateral change, ask yourself: “Where do I want to be in five years?”
2. Research Lateral Opportunities Within Your Company
Many organizations encourage lateral transfers as a way to retain talent. Look at open positions internally.
3. Build Relationships and Network
Most lateral job movement happens through internal referrals. Cultivate relationships across teams.
4. Develop Transferable Skills
Make yourself an ideal candidate by strengthening skills that are valuable across multiple roles.
Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become.
James Clear, Atomic Habits
🚫 “Lateral moves don’t improve your salary.”
✅ Truth: While initial pay may not change, the skills gained often lead to higher-paying promotions later.
Should You Make a Lateral Move?
The truth is, the smartest professionals don’t just chase promotions—they chase growth. A lateral move in career can be your secret weapon for long-term success. It’s not about stepping sideways—it’s about stepping forward strategically.
Enthusiasm is common. Endurance is rare.
Angela Duckworth, Grit
And sometimes, endurance means taking the unconventional route—like making a lateral job move.
So, what do you think? Could a lateral move be your next best career move?
