Caroline Handley at StaffPlus London 2023

Evaluating your career track to align with goals and values, recognizing trigger signs for change, and making intentional choices for growth, stability, and fulfillment.

Key takeaways
  • Start evaluating your current track and consider a change if it’s no longer aligning with your goals and values.
  • Don’t be afraid to switch tracks: from IC to manager or vice versa, and recognize that being a manager doesn’t mean being bad at coding.
  • Identify your trigger signs for change: stagnation, boredom, and a sense of dissonance between your role and responsibilities.
  • Don’t solely rely on your company to recognize your potential: take initiative to learn and grow outside of your role.
  • Technical skills still matter regardless of your track: make time to keep coding and learning.
  • Change can bring instability, so plan ahead and prioritize self-care.
  • Use job interviews as an opportunity to practice and settle on your next path.
  • Consider seeking mentorship and support from others, especially in a transition.
  • Embrace the possibility of taking a step back or switching to a smaller company for better work-life balance.
  • Recognize that every change comes with risk, but also with the potential for growth and reward.
  • Cultivate an open and honest dialogue with your manager and colleagues about your concerns and desires.
  • Use your mistakes and setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow.
  • Prioritize setting clear goals and evaluating your progress along the way.
  • Don’t be too proud to ask for help or guidance, and be willing to adapt to changes in the market and industry.