Ask the Experts

I have worked in several architecture firms and have been with my current employer since 1992. I enjoy the work and the people but am curious about strategies for advancement within a firm. I have witnessed peers “hopping” from one firm to another and often returning to one with whom they had previously worked. Each of these “hops” seems to give them another step up the ladder of advancement. It seems that long-term employment slows or prevents advancement. Perhaps it is a misperception, but it seems that part of the problem is that senior members of the firm continue to see me in my earlier roles and do not recognize the added abilities and responsibilities I’ve gained. What advice do you have for me to realize more recognition and better salary and benefits in my current organization?
— Jim, ’79, MA’81

Answer
It does seem to be the case that movement increases perceived value when it comes to careers. While it doesn’t always make sense to someone who stays with a company for an extended period, many people advance their careers through multiple and continued changes.

For those who stay with a company long term it may seem that you are not valued by your current employer. One way to get things moving again is to take on some “special projects” that will provide some additional visibility. There is risk in taking on challenges, but that is where the rewards are gained as well. Make an appointment with your direct supervisor/superior and express your desire to move up. Attack the issue head-on, tell him just what you told us, that you like the firm and the community and that you would love to remain there and increase your development and contribution to the company, and you would like to discuss how to make that happen in an advanced role.

Companies are aching for people who take the initiative and accept challenges. Don’t forget to engage actively in your own professional development. Join both national and local associations to stay current, network with colleagues and build your identity as a professional. Remember, moving to new companies can be risky.

Over the years, I have seen literally thousands of resumes that reflect rapid movement and advancement, until the person hits the wrong move. The recovery can take years. For every one person who seems to have flown higher with less results or achievements, there are another 10 who have crashed—you just don’t see them. Just remember, rewards come with results not just effort.

I am very interested and excited to make a major change in my career. I have been working in various engineering and management positions in the automotive industry for the past 15.5 years and have had quite good success. I am not looking to leave the industry because of its recent woes or unemployment, but I want to make a change to align my knowledge, expertise, and passion. I have been very interested in the paradigm shift of “going green” for quite some time. I have a knack for pushing for efficiency and increasing output. This is true for me in manufacturing, office tasks and the people that work for me. I feel I am in the wrong company/industry and not utilizing my work ethic in its proper place. Can you help?
— Doug, MBA’07, MS’07

Answer one
The “going green” shift is very big right now, and as I am sure you saw, Chrysler is going to launch completely electric powered cars in the next there years. Also, Michigan has research and development credits built into the small business tax that passed last year so I am hoping this will bring an influx of environmentally focused engineering and research corporations to the Michigan area.

First, I would recommend contacting some local automotive engineering companies and asking for informational interviews with the departments that handle and work directly with green energy development (or energy conservation/preservation). That way you begin to develop a professional portfolio of the managers and directors who are working directly in the fields toward which you would like to move, and also they get to know you and can have you in mind if positions open up. Informational interviews are a professional courtesy and many times are a very low pressure way of leading to a great job!

Answer two
In this uncertain economy do consider matters such as your financial protection during your transition. If you should choose to change employers, I suggest you review the employee benefits and whether you will keep or lose them when you leave. Typically, group life and group disability insurance coverages end when you are no longer an employee of the company. Some companies additionally offer voluntary life and disability, which may continue when you leave, sometimes at a different cost to you. If you are considering continuing any insurance benefits, it is a good idea to compare costs with what might otherwise be available in the marketplace. Give attention to the retirement plan, such as a 401(k), when you leave. You have the option to roll it over into an IRA in your own name, without incurring any taxes or penalties. There are several reasons you may wish to do this, including control over the account, death benefit options and choices in where to invest. Certain employers also offer a traditional pension, which provides a lifetime income after long years of service. You may wish to gather the information now on what you are eligible for, to keep with your important papers. In some cases, a pension can be commuted to a lump sum payout. If so, you will want to weigh the pros and cons. If you work for the “Detroit Three”, there are benefits in retirement which are a continuation of, but different from, benefits you have while actively working, and these should also be weighed, as your expectations in retirement may be affected.