Fri 24 sept 2021
So, You Don’t Want to Be the Boss…
Being the boss is not for everyone. So, how do you grow in your career if you don’t want to become a manager and instead want to remain an individual contributor?
(1) First, be clear and realistic about what this choice means for your path moving forward. You probably won’t end up in the C-suite or as the head of a department without taking on some direct reports. On the other hand, you’ll likely have the opportunity to develop expertise in your field, and become the best at what you do.
(2) Next, define what success looks like for you. Maybe focusing on creative work drives your motivation. Or perhaps you prefer heads down, technical work that requires concentration and a solo working environment. After you’ve defined what makes you happy, look for opportunities where you can step into this kind of role. Be proactive. You may need to create an opportunity for yourself that your manager can help refine. Put together a plan for your future growth that you can present to your manager during a performance review or one-on-one discussion.
(3) Finally, check-in with yourself periodically. Think about your current role and where you see your career going. Your definition of success may change over time, and you can always switch directions and decide you want to take a different path.
This tip is adapted from “You Don’t Have to Become ‘The Boss’ to Grow in Your Career,” by Anne Sugar
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