Which is better: advancing within a single client from staff to senior to manager, or switching industries every year?
I’ve worked as a staff member on two clients, but now I’m being transitioned to a new industry as a senior, reporting to a manager who has a questionable reputation at the firm—many of her seniors have left recently, raising concerns about her leadership. This situation is likely to hinder my growth since my expertise lies in private equity and real estate, but now I have to take on senior responsibilities in the insurance sector with someone I’m unfamiliar with.
A senior manager has assured me that if issues arise with the manager, I can opt out.
I’ll be speaking with my senior manager in two hours. Should I embrace this as a challenge, or should I express my desire to continue growing with my current clients?
One response
It’s understandable to feel uncertain about this transition, especially given the circumstances surrounding your new manager. Here are a few points to consider as you prepare for your discussion with your senior manager:
Long-Term Growth vs. Short-Term Challenge: Think about your career goals. If you believe that deepening your expertise in private equity and real estate is crucial for your long-term career path, it may make sense to advocate for continued growth in those areas rather than shifting to insurance, especially if it feels like a step back.
Possibility of Learning: On the other hand, there could be valuable skills and experiences to gain from working in a new industry, and you might surprise yourself with how much you can adapt. Consider if you’re open to this learning opportunity, even under a challenging manager.
Express Your Concerns: When speaking with your senior manager, be honest about your feelings regarding the change and the reputation of your new manager. It’s important to communicate your desire for growth and development and express any concerns you have about potential setbacks.
Reassess Opportunities: Ask about opportunities for growth within your current industries while still being aware of the need for flexibility in your career. There may be options to balance both—working across industries while staying connected to your main area of expertise.
Decision-Making: Ultimately, weigh the pros and cons of sticking with your current clients versus taking on a new challenge. If possible, try to get a sense of what the future might hold in each direction.
Going into the meeting prepared with these points can help you clearly articulate your thoughts and make a decision that aligns with your career ambitions. Good luck!