In a world obsessed with promotions and titles, many professionals fear any move that isn't "upward." But the truth is, lateral moves — taking a new role at the same level — can offer more growth, skill development, and long-term opportunity than … Read on blog or Reader SMALL BUSINESS INSIGHTS Read on blog or Reader Embracing lateral moves for long-term career growth By Olamide Adedara on August 7, 2025 In a world obsessed with promotions and titles, many professionals fear any move that isn't "upward." But the truth is, lateral moves — taking a new role at the same level — can offer more growth, skill development, and long-term opportunity than a vertical promotion. Sometimes, the smartest step you can take isn't a step up. It's a strategic sidestep. What is a Lateral Move? A lateral move is when you change your role or responsibilities without a change in title, salary, or position in the hierarchy. It might involve: Switching departments Moving into a new function Joining a different team Transitioning to a new project or client Though it doesn't look like "progress" on paper, the value lies in experience, exposure, and skills gained. Why Lateral Moves Matter Broaden Your Skill Set: Gain new technical or soft skills that make you more versatile. Boost Adaptability: Learn how to thrive in different environments. Increase Visibility: Meet new stakeholders and leaders who could influence your future. Build Career Resilience: You're no longer boxed into one path — you become a flexible, agile professional. When to Consider a Lateral Move You feel stuck or uninspired in your current role. You want to learn something new without waiting for a promotion. There's no upward mobility in your current department. You're aiming for leadership but lack cross-functional experience. You want to future-proof your career by becoming multi-skilled. Real Growth Isn't Always Vertical Lateral moves often lead to faster vertical growth later. Here's how: You become a more well-rounded candidate for leadership roles. You develop problem-solving and people skills in new settings. You build a stronger internal reputation across multiple teams. Think of it like chess — sometimes you move sideways to create a better position for the winning move. How to Make the Most of a Lateral Move Set clear goals: What do you want to gain? Communicate your ambition: Let your manager know you're still growth-driven. Build relationships in the new role quickly. Track your achievements — even if the title hasn't changed. What If People Don't Understand Your Move? Some may question why you didn't aim higher. Here's what to remember: You don't owe anyone a traditional path. True career growth isn't always visible at first glance. Long-term thinkers understand that skills > status. Conclusion: In today's evolving career landscape, the smartest path isn't always the straightest. Lateral moves may not look like progress to the outside world, but they often put you in the perfect position for the next big leap. Don't just chase titles. Chase growth.

SMALL BUSINESS INSIGHTS © 2025. Unsubscribe or manage your email subscriptions. Get the Jetpack app Subscribe, bookmark, and get real‑time notifications - all from one app! Automattic, Inc. 60 29th St. #343, San Francisco, CA 94110

The Federal Government has called for a bold transition from importing outdated industrial equipment to deploying locally made, modern manufacturing solutions. Speaking at the 2025 Nigeria Manufacturing and Equipment/Nigerian Raw Materials Expo in Lagos… Read on blog or Reader SMALL BUSINESS INSIGHTS Read on blog or Reader FG pushes for locally built manufacturing solutions to boost SMEs By Abimbola Akomolafe on August 7, 2025 The Federal Government has called for a bold transition from importing outdated industrial equipment to deploying locally made, modern manufacturing solutions. Speaking at the 2025 Nigeria Manufacturing and Equipment/Nigerian Raw Materials Expo in Lagos, Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Enoh, emphasized that Nigeria must stop relying on foreign "industrial scrap" if it hopes to become truly competitive in global manufacturing. He stressed that industrial self-sufficiency is key to national development. Enoh revealed that the manufacturing sector currently contributes less than 10% to Nigeria's GDP, a situation the government is determined to change. Through a new Draft National Industrial Policy, currently under validation, the Federal Government aims to prioritize technology adoption, equipment financing, and energy integration. These efforts, he said, will drive innovation across key industries like agro-processing, textiles, and automotive manufacturing—sectors that offer strong potential for SMEs to thrive. To support small and medium enterprises, the government plans to launch a Made-in-Nigeria campaign, led by the Pro-Nigeria Secretariat. This initiative will promote locally manufactured machinery through product certification, digital marketplaces, and increased media visibility. The policy framework will also harmonize efforts among key agencies such as the Bank of Industry, NASENI, and NEPZA to provide affordable, smart equipment to grassroots and rural manufacturers. Read also, FG pushes for locally built manufacturing solutions to boost SMEs New NCC rules threaten telecom SMEs with licence revocation for non-compliance Why building genuine connections matters more than ever CREDICORP, NYSC launch N9bn credit scheme to empower corps members NITDA kicks Off nationwide tour to drive digital growth and entrepreneurship, starting in Benue The Minister encouraged stakeholders to use the expo as a platform to form strategic partnerships for technology transfer and innovation. He urged Nigerian innovators and manufacturers to explore modular and mobile equipment models that can reach underserved regions. Enoh also highlighted the need for stronger collaboration with tertiary institutions to co-develop Nigeria-specific machines and define sustainability as a core aspect of inclusive industrial growth. President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Francis Meshioye, said the expo is a key opportunity to turn ideas into action by fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainable practices. With panel sessions on women in manufacturing, international partnerships, and cutting-edge technology, the three-day expo brought together government agencies, private sector players, and innovation hubs to shape a resilient, inclusive future for Nigerian manufacturing.

SMALL BUSINESS INSIGHTS © 2025. Unsubscribe or manage your email subscriptions. Get the Jetpack app Subscribe, bookmark, and get real‑time notifications - all from one app! Automattic, Inc. 60 29th St. #343, San Francisco, CA 94110