Progressive Dedication or Stagnation?

Based on the number of congratulatory messages flooding my inbox, I’ve just hit a new milestone—10 years at the same company! Ten years is a long time, and as a recruitment expert with a long history in career development, I can’t help but wonder if the well-wishes contain a hint of… well, concern. And if I am being honest, it’s a concern I share, too. Is loyalty a strength or professional stagnation?

The narrative surrounding long-term employment with one company can be just as limiting as the stereotype pinned on career job hoppers. On one hand, you have stability, depth of knowledge, and unwavering commitment. But on the other hand, there are fresh perspectives, fast-track growth, and exposure to diverse environments.

So, how do you navigate this dichotomy? Is an employer change the only answer for long-term employees seeking change or advancement, or can you strike a balance and cultivate growth within your tenure?

Staying with a company for a long time doesn’t mean becoming outdated, far from it. However, cultivating a progressive career of continuous learning and growth is a shared responsibility between you and your employer. And while a supportive employer can provide opportunities, your commitment to yourself is ultimately critical. This is why I’m sharing these thoughts to help you reflect on your current or future career reflection points:??

• Stay Sharp on Your Own: Take charge of your professional development. Become a knowledge sponge—read widely, listen to podcasts, and network with professionals inside and outside your company.
• Take Accountability: Don’t be passive. Proactively seek out challenging projects outside your normal scope of work. Don’t be afraid to speak up, ask questions and share your ideas.
• Collaborate: Talk to your peers, senior leaders, and broader network. Share your experience with new colleagues to help them grow while keeping you engaged with fresh perspectives.

Dedication is not stagnation. It’s the foundation upon which we build a deep understanding of an organisation, its people, and its goals. This depth becomes a catalyst for continuous learning and evolution. In my case, I started as a stand-alone recruiter for a Sydney tech company; I now lead a global talent function for an ASX-listed powerhouse.? I have been part of a company IPO, M&A and integrations while spearheading new global talent initiatives and nurturing diverse talent pools and strategies from early career to executive – my reward has been when dedication meets a commitment to personal growth.

However, being fortunate to find an employer and a leader that embraces and drives evolution was key. Imagine working in a dynamic environment where your role constantly adapts, pushing you to learn and develop alongside the company’s trajectory. This doesn’t mean starting from scratch every few years – it’s about pushing and aligning yourself with a company with solid foundations and a clear vision for the future.

So, while I am delighted to acknowledge this 10-year milestone, I also recognise that it presents an opportunity to reflect on a decade of growth and a future of possibilities yet to be written.

#ShapeYourCareer #WisetechGlobal #Hiring #Jobs #Careers #StayorGo