Forget the linear climb up the corporate ladder, polished shoes one rung at a time. Today’s professionals are trading that predictable ascent for a bolder, more dynamic path: the career zigzag. This isn’t a random stroll through the job jungle, but a strategic navigation, one fuelled by the demands of a changing world and the thirst for adaptability.
Think of it as surfing the tides of a dynamic labour market. Where once a single company could offer a full career arc, industries are now reshaping faster than one can say “digital transformation.” Skills become obsolete with alarming speed, demanding flexibility and continuous learning. That’s where the zigzag comes in, a career path that embraces diversity, thrives on challenge, and keeps you riding the crest of the professional wave.
“Initially, adopting a zig-zag path can be more challenging due to the need for continuous learning and building new networks. But the long-term benefits, in terms of leadership readiness and success, are substantial”
Sunil Ranjhan, senior advisor – HR, LG Electronics
“It’s about gaining varied experiences across different domains,” explains Sunil Ranjhan, senior advisor – HR, LG Electronics. He envisions HR professionals not just climbing the HR ladder, but exploring sales, industrial relations, even corporate affairs. “This exposure to different geographies and business contexts shapes a well-rounded individual.”
This well-roundedness isn’t just a feel-good bonus. It’s a survival skill in an uncertain market. Zigzagging keeps your skillset fresh, your mind nimble. Jaikrishna B, group head-HR, Amara Raja Group, puts it bluntly: “Zig-zaggers often develop broader skill sets, enabling success in various roles and industries. Problem-solving, creativity, adaptability – these are the keys to thriving in a world where the only constant is change.”
This adaptability is particularly valuable in industries that crave fresh perspectives. “Creative fields – media, entertainment, design – they all prize diverse experiences,” notes Jaikrishna. “Imagine the ad-man who’s been a designer, a tech whiz, and a social media guru – that’s a recipe for ground-breaking campaigns.”
And then there’s the gig economy, a fertile breeding ground for zigzaggers. Freelancing, remote work, and project-based contracts offer a buffet of diverse projects and clients, each a bite-sized learning experience. You build your network, hone new skills, and keep your resume a kaleidoscope of expertise.
“Zig-zaggers often develop broader skill sets, enabling success in various roles and industries. Problem-solving, creativity, adaptability – these are the keys to thriving in a world where the only constant is change”
Jaikrishna B, group head-HR, Amara Raja Group
But this isn’t a free-for-all, wild goose chase. Zigzagging demands continuous learning, whether it’s online courses, workshops, or simply a voracious appetite for knowledge. Staying ahead of the curve, the AI juggernaut, and the whims of the market – that’s the name of the game.
And let’s not forget the unexpected. The global economy’s a fickle beast, and technological advancements can rewrite job descriptions overnight. “Embracing the zig-zag allows you to navigate challenges and explore new opportunities,” says Jaikrishna. “It makes you resilient, valuable, and ready for whatever the future throws your way.”
Of course, this agile approach isn’t without its challenges. Organisations need to shed the rigidity of their hierarchies and embrace a culture of innovation and tolerance for the unconventional. Individuals must be comfortable with the less-than-predictable nature of the path, open to unforeseen opportunities, and willing to put in the work to build new skills and networks.
As Ranjhan says, “Initially, adopting a zig-zag path can be more challenging due to the need for continuous learning and building new networks. But the long-term benefits, in terms of leadership readiness and success, are substantial.”
So, ditch the ladder. Embrace the zigzag. It’s not just a career path; it’s a mindset shift, a refusal to be confined by the boxes the professional world tries to cram us into. It’s about riding the waves of change, learning with every turn, and ultimately, carving your own path to success in a world that demands nothing less.
