Let’s face it—this whole idea of climbing the career ladder, one neat rung at a time until you hit “success,” doesn’t really match how most of us work anymore.
Jobs evolve. Industries shift. Layoffs happen. People switch fields, change interests, or start over—sometimes more than once. And that’s not failure. That’s the new normal.
Enter the career lattice: a more flexible, realistic way to grow your career without feeling boxed into a single upward path.
So, What’s a Career Lattice?
Think of a ladder: straight up or down, one direction.
Now picture a lattice, like the kind plants grow on—it spreads sideways, upward, diagonally. That’s how modern careers often look.
With a lattice mindset, growth can mean:
- Moving into a different team
- Learning a new set of skills
- Taking a short step sideways to take a bigger leap later
- Mixing freelance, contract, and full-time gigs
- Pivoting to an entirely new field after 10+ years
It’s not about going “up” every time—it’s about going forward, wherever that leads.
Why Lattices Make More Sense Now
1. Work Moves Faster Than Ever
Tech changes. Entire industries get disrupted. The skills you learned five years ago may already feel dusty.
Rigid ladders don’t account for that kind of speed. But lattices do—because they let you shift, stretch, and adapt as you go.
2. Skills Matter More Than Titles
Most companies are realizing that someone with a diverse, transferable skill set is often more valuable than someone who’s just climbed the traditional ranks.
Lattice-style careers often result in a broader toolbox. That makes you more resilient—and more hireable.
3. Ladders Are Limiting
Sometimes, climbing the ladder means waiting for someone to retire. Or playing office politics. Or doing a role that doesn’t fit just because it’s the “next step.”
The lattice approach gives you more agency. You design your own moves based on what actually makes sense for you—not just what’s available.
Real Examples of Lattice Moves
- A product designer takes a detour into customer research to better inform future design work
- A marketing manager shifts into operations to understand how the business really runs
- A teacher becomes a learning experience designer for corporate training programs
- A copywriter learns basic data analytics to add strategic insight to their content work
Each move might look sideways on paper—but it opens up new doors, fast.
How to Start Thinking Lattice, Not Ladder
1. Redefine What Progress Looks Like
Instead of just chasing promotions or titles, ask:
- Am I growing?
- Am I learning?
- Am I enjoying the work more—or gaining clarity about what I want next?
- Am I building relationships and credibility in new areas?
If the answer’s yes—even without a new job title—that’s progress.
2. Build Skills, Not Just Resume Lines
Focus on building capabilities, not just climbing status.
That might mean:
- Learning how to manage remote teams
- Taking on a cross-functional project
- Volunteering for a completely different kind of task
- Building your public speaking or technical writing muscle
Skills open doors—even when titles don’t.
3. Follow Curiosity, Not Just Paths
Notice what makes you curious—even if it’s outside your current role. Those sparks often lead to your next opportunity.
You might shadow a coworker in another department. Or take a side project in a new field. Or dive into a certification that’s not directly related to your current job but expands your options.
Lattice thinking gives you permission to follow the breadcrumbs.
4. Document Your Moves
Because lattice moves aren’t always linear, it helps to keep track of the “why” behind each shift.
Keep notes on:
- What you learned
- How the move helped your performance
- What new value you brought to your team or company
It’ll come in handy when updating your resume or prepping for interviews—especially if someone asks, “Why did you switch paths?”
5. Find Mentors Who’ve Moved Sideways
Traditional mentors might push you up the ladder. But lattice mentors will help you zigzag with purpose.
Look for people who’ve had unconventional paths. Ask them what worked, what didn’t, and how they navigated transitions. Their insights can help you move with more confidence.
