Workplace Doctor: Treading water in the same old job

How long is too long in the same job role? I am in my early 30s and have had the same position in an engineering firm for seven years and although I enjoy it immensely, I am starting to wonder whether not moving upwards or on to another company is affecting my long-term career growth. How would a recruiter view my CV and is there a point where I should make a move on to something else to ensure career progression? JB, Sharjah

It is an interesting question you bring in terms of career development. On a positive note it seems you have developed seven years of solid experience with an engineering firm that you have enjoyed. This is a lot more than many people can say about their working lives. I am wondering if you have put yourself forward for any more senior positions when they are up for grabs in your organisation and, if so, what were the outcomes? If not, what was the reason for you not putting yourself forward?

You may also need to weigh up the enjoyment factor and consider whether you would genuinely relish a more senior role (for example, that of your line manager) or working for another organisation, or a bit of both?

Are there aspects of your current organisation that you enjoy and the culture itself? If so, maybe you could consider your personal development and look at your career progression, if you feel there is space to move or progress. On the other hand, if you enjoy the role itself more than the organisation and are looking to move to a higher level, you could think about new opportunities with different firms, which will increase your specialist knowledge and experience, as well as your exposure to a different working environment.

If you do decide to talk to recruiters then I think that they should look at your seven years of experience favourably, in the sense that you have shown loyalty to an organisation and have proven that you will thrive in an environment that you enjoy. Similarly, it will give them confidence that if they offer you a role that you will be committed to making it work and will show some resilience to maintaining it. Nowadays, with the pace of change in organisations, employees themselves often see spending two years in one place as a display of loyalty. However, from talking to many organisations, many are looking for at least four or five years of commitment.

I guess you are concerned about feeling too comfortable or even “stuck” in one place. I would, again, take you back to the all-important enjoyment factor and ask yourself what drivers or motivators you have in your current role, for example fulfilment or stability? Then ask yourself what different driver or motivators you could fulfil by doing something new – whether it is bringing variety or creativity into your career. The answers to those two questions should help you make the right decision for your future.

Doctor’s prescription

It is always difficult to make career choices, especially when you’re moving from a place that you feel valued. But in terms of your career progression you may need to move outside your comfort zone and weigh up whether moving within or outside your organisation will truly fulfil you.

Alex Davda is a business psychologist and consultant at Ashridge Business School based in the Middle East. Email him at business@thenational.ae for advice on any work issues.

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