The Right Moves To Move Up
Call them the young and the restless, itching to keep advancing along a career path.
A 2016 Gallup report found that 59 percent of Millennials polled said opportunities to learn and grow were extremely important in looking for a job.
Older workers like opportunities, too, but not in the same numbers: 44 percent of GenXers and 41 percent of Baby Boomers.
“A job seeker shouldn’t be afraid to discuss a career path during the interview process,” says Kevin Cashman of executive search firm Korn Ferry International.
“Our colleagues who recruit at more junior levels say that often, when a Millennial is interviewed, they want to know detail not just about the position for which they are being considered, but they want to know what their next two or even three steps would be within the company.”
Amanda Helfand, senior assistant director for career services at Bentley University, agrees. “Asking about career development opportunities demonstrates that you are envisioning yourself at the company for long enough to progress in your career.”
Still, a candidate who focuses too much on the future can appear disinterested in the opening he’s aiming to fill.
“While it is perfectly acceptable to ask about typical growth trajectory or types of professional development opportunities,” Helfand says. “It is important for a candidate to balance this with a clear interest in the role.”
In an interview, it makes sense to broach career growth with the person who will be your boss, says Brandon Rigoni of Gallup, which has found that workers who report high levels of satisfaction with their employer tend to have a manager who proactively addresses growth opportunities.
While many workers who feel they’re stagnating in their current role will start looking for a new one, Rigoni advises also asking the boss questions like, “What would I need to accomplish in order to advance?”