Horizontal Growth or Vertical Growth: Unleash your potential

Introduction

I have been interviewing applicants for over a decade now and one key aspect that pushed me to write this article is the answer from 99.999% of the candidates to the question “Where do you see yourself in your career after 2/5/10 years?” “What are your career aspirations?” The only answer we get is “To be a lead/manager or have a higher position in corporate”

When it comes to our development as a professional, two primary approaches come into play: horizontal growth and vertical growth. In this article, we will explore what precisely horizontal growth is, its benefits, and how it can be helpful to an individual in achieving vertical growth without contesting for it.

Horizontal growth, also known as lateral growth, refers to an individual's willingness and enthusiasm to develop a diverse range of skills and experiences, even if they don't necessarily lead to immediate promotions or upward career moves. Embracing a horizontal growth mindset comes with several advantages that can significantly impact an individual's personal and professional life:

• Adaptability: Individuals with a horizontal growth mindset are more adaptable to change. They possess a wide range of skills that enable them to pivot and take on new challenges, making them resilient in the face of uncertainties and changes in the job market.

• Greater Job Satisfaction: Employees with a horizontal growth mindset are often more satisfied with their jobs. They find fulfillment in their continuous development and the variety of challenges they encounter in their roles.

• Continuous Learning: A horizontal growth mindset fosters a love for learning. These individuals are curious and eager to explore new areas, which fuels their personal development and keeps them engaged in lifelong learning.

• Creative Problem-Solving: Exposure to different fields and experiences allows individuals to approach problems from various angles. A horizontal growth mindset promotes innovative and creative problem-solving, as they can draw from their diverse knowledge and skills.

• Career Exploration: Embracing horizontal growth means being open to exploring different career paths and opportunities. This mindset enables individuals to discover their true passions and interests, leading to a more fulfilling career.

• Reduced Fear of Failure: A horizontal growth mindset encourages individuals to take calculated risks and try new things. They are less afraid of failure as they understand that each experience contributes to their growth and learning.

• Improved Resilience: The ability to adapt, learn, and explore different paths makes individuals with a horizontal growth mindset more resilient in the face of setbacks or obstacles in their careers.

• Future-Proofing Career: With the job market evolving rapidly, a horizontal growth mindset ensures individuals are better prepared for future job demands. Their diverse skill set makes them less susceptible to job displacement due to automation and technological advancements.

• Increased Versatility: Developing diverse skills and experiences makes an individual more versatile. They can contribute effectively to various projects, teams, and roles, enhancing their value to employers and increasing their potential for career opportunities.

• Leadership Potential: The skills and experiences gained through horizontal growth can also be valuable in leadership roles. Leaders with a broad perspective can better understand and guide their teams effectively.

Overall, a horizontal growth mindset empowers individuals to become lifelong learners and adaptable professionals who can navigate the complexities of the modern job market. It enables them to build a robust foundation of skills and experiences, positioning them for continued success and personal fulfillment in their careers.