In recruitment just about everyone (well not quite everyone but a large majority!!) I speak to talks about boosting their career – climbing that ladder, getting advancement upwards or looking for the promotion. It was not until I interviewed a lady this week who was extremely senior in her field mentioned to me “career progression in reverse” when we had a conversation around her career goals. It really got me thinking about this and for me how relevant it is in today’s society.

For many senior managers, years of leadership come with rewards such as influence, salary, and a sense of accomplishment. But the top isn’t always where satisfaction lies. It seems that a growing number of experienced professionals are choosing to swivel – not up, but sideways or even down to reclaim their balance, creativity or autonomy.

I’m not saying all senior managers are of a certain age bracket, but The Australian Bureau of statistics is currently saying 48.3% of the population here are over 40 years old. This is something we really need to think about as a positive for companies moving forward as they are really going to get great value for money if people start to have this mindset.

Recently, two great friends of mine for one reason or another and having risen to the top of their professions after 15 and 20 years, are both wanting a change. Both are in their 40’s and still really keen to continue working, but just not at the pace or level they were before. Friend A relocated interstate and found an amazing role. In a similar field but (a) not with the stress or people management (she used to have a team of 3000 under her, (b) still paying a six-figure salary, (c) working a 9-day fortnight and (d) is a true 9-5 role! On the flip side the company she is working for truly have “bang for their buck”. She has been there for over a year now and absolutely loves it. When I catch up with her now, she is so more relaxed and is absolutely loving life.

Friend B decided 6 months ago that it was time to take a step back (realignment) after years of running at a C ’Suite level she felt she truly needed to take time off to recalibrate. During her time of reflection we caught up and she shared that it wasn’t about the money anymore or the climb of that corporate ladder – it was about balance and personal fulfillment. I was in awe of this as in my opinion she had it all, so why did she want to change? She has just re-joined the job market and also landed her next opportunity. Again I feel this company has truly got value for money. She is extremely happy and tells me every time I meet her it has been the best decision ever.

So, in a world obsessed with climbing the ladder, what happens when you want to step down a few rungs—on purpose?

First of all, let’s reframe this. Stepping back from management isn’t regression; it’s realignment. This can be a powerful, strategic decision, especially when driven by burnout from high-pressure decision-making and politics through to a desire for hands-on work after years of oversight to reclaiming time for personal goals, family, or health.

 

So, some things to consider before stepping back:

• You will most likely have to take a pay cut, so make sure this shift is financially viable.
• There will be an identity shift. Most of your career you’ve probably been seen as a leader or go-to person, so being ready for this change will help.
• Will this just be a pause in your career, or a new long-term trajectory? Ensuring you are clear on what you want and happy with this decision.
• Finally, confirm your narrative for this change. People may assume negative reasons instead of the positive. I would emphasise that this move is intentional (remember not backwards but realignment). A couple of examples that may be of use once you have made this decision are:

“After 20+ years with Company X, I’ve taken the leap. It was my deliberate choice to take charge of what I want next.”

“After years of leading teams, I’m excited to return to hands-on problem-solving and technical excellence.”

Careers today are very fluid. In my humble opinion what matters most isn’t direction, it’s the alignment with your values, energy, and definition of success.

I feel that stepping back (realignment) can be an act of courage. It’s not about giving up; it’s about choosing a version of work that works for you in the here and now.

Remember, this is your life so make it work for you to get the best out of it! 😊

 

Alicia Sumich

Group Manager – Business Development

Alicia is a seasoned Recruitment Consultant with over 15 years’ experience in the Brisbane market. Having dealt with a diversified range of clients she has expertise in helping employers build “best in class” talent acquisition and talent management capabilities to attract, engage and retain high performing staff…