We typically associate career growth with moving into higher-paid roles that come with greater responsibility. But have you ever considered a sideways career move? A sideways career move involves transitioning into a role at a similar level and pay, often within a different team, function or organisation.
While it may not look like progression on paper, a sideways move can be a strategic decision. It can help you broaden your skill set, gain exposure to new areas of a business and position yourself for future advancement. In many cases, it’s a deliberate step that strengthens long-term career prospects rather than slowing them down.
So, what are the benefits of making a sideways career move?
Benefits of sideways career moves
Develop your skill set
Even when a new role is similar to one you’ve held before, there are always new skills to learn and different ways of working to experience. A sideways career move can expose you to new systems, processes, stakeholders or industries that strengthen your overall capability.
Over time, this helps you build a broader range of transferable skills — such as communication, problem-solving and leadership — that can position you strongly for future promotions or more senior roles
Increase your visibility
Shifting to a different role within the same organisation allows you to become known to a wider range of managers, supervisors and decision-makers. By working across teams or departments, you increase your exposure to different leadership styles and priorities.
The more managers you work with, the more opportunities you have to demonstrate your skills, reliability and value. This broader visibility can lead to stronger internal networks, greater recognition for your contributions and, over time, improved chances of being considered for promotions.
Become more resilient to change
Working across different areas of a business — or moving to a different type of organisation altogether — can help you become more adaptable and flexible in your approach to work. Exposure to new environments, teams and expectations encourages you to adjust quickly and respond effectively to change.
A sideways career move also allows you to trial new ways of thinking and working without the pressure that often comes with a promotion. Over time, this builds confidence and resilience, making it easier to navigate organisational change, restructures or shifts in workplace priorities.
What to consider when examining a sideways career move
When exploring making a sideways career move, you should first consider what you are hoping to achieve. What is it you are wanting to get out of a job change? What would you like to see about your role change and what would you like to stay the same?
Before considering a sideways career move, you should consider consulting your manager. Is there anything they could offer you that would convince you to stay? However, you should always keep your goals and interests front of mind.
Taking the time to think through these questions can help you approach a sideways career move with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re aiming to broaden your skill set, increase visibility within your organisation or reposition yourself for future progression, how you present your experience matters. A well-structured resume and LinkedIn profile can clearly communicate the value of your move and help employers see it as a strategic step forward rather than a lack of direction.
Are you looking for a new career? Melbourne Resume Writers can help. We offer a range of professional services, including resume writing and LinkedIn profile writing, to help you confidently position yourself for your next opportunity.
Article References
Indeed (12 December 2025) ‘Making a Lateral Career Move: A Complete Guide’, Indeed, accessed 29 December 2025.
Seek (8 December 2023) ‘What’s a sideways move, and why should I make one?’, Seek, accessed 29 December 2025.