Career Progression VS Salary: Which Is More Important?
We all want money, and a big reason you may be looking for a new role is that you want that payrise. But it’s not always that straightforward…
If you’re truly looking to succeed in a career, do something you’re passionate about, in an industry you’re passionate about, it might not be as straightforward as taking a high salary.
A GOOD SALARY NOW DOESN’T MEAN A GOOD SALARY LATER
Accepting a high salary may be great for the moment, personally of course, but professionally it’ll make you feel like you’re moving forward. But if the company isn’t looking to invest in your career, you may be stuck on that salary for a while.
Of course, a lower salary can feel demotivating, but if the offer is coming from a company that puts their employees first, has a great company culture, and offers clear career progression with great training and learning opportunities – that sounds pretty motivating.
PROGRESS HOW YOU WANT TO PROGRESS
You want a great salary, I get it – but how will prioritising a salary over your desired career path benefit you in the future?
Working in a role that you’re genuinely passionate about, at a company that will help accelerate your career is so worthwhile. It allows you to learn skills and have opportunities that will open you up to a career in which you’ll truly thrive.
I’ll be honest though. Many companies offer low salaries and ‘promise’ career progression but 2 years down the line, you’re on the same salary. But it’s important to judge companies by their culture, success stories, and of course, how they present themselves in the interview process.
Maybe you’re deciding between an okay role with a great salary and a great role with an okay salary. Let’s say you take the first one and a year from now you’re looking to progress into your ideal role. Do you truly have the skills to move into that role or will you have to take a salary cut?
If you have to take a salary cut, you’ll be going full circle. Or if you feel too uncomfortable with taking a lower salary, you’ll stay in a role that you’re not enjoying.
JOB HOPPING ISN’T ALWAYS THE BEST WAY TO PROGRESS
It’s no surprise that younger employees change jobs more frequently, with 20 – 24-year-olds changing jobs every 1.3 years (BBC Worklife). This is seen as normal, and sometimes it makes complete sense because you want to progress in salary and position, but you might be able to avoid switching jobs so regularly if you work for companies that you could progress within.
Especially when you’re a graduate, early in your career, or just switched industries – never underestimate how much you can learn from staying in one company for more than 2 years. From promotions to regular opportunities, when you find a company that invests in you, suits your passions, and is just a great place to work – you can benefit hugely.
So, maybe you’re thinking of taking a higher salary and if you don’t like the job – you can move elsewhere. Think about whether that’s truly the right approach.
BEING HAPPY DOESN’T ALWAYS EQUAL MONEY
We all need money to not only survive but also to thrive. Financial freedom can allow you to enjoy great things like holidays, great food, and a home you love. But if you’re earning great money in a place that makes you hate Mondays, is it truly allowing you to enjoy life?
And let’s be honest. When you’re passionate about a role, you put so much more effort into it – therefore making more money from sales, promotions, etc. So it’s a win-win.
That role with the high salary might motivate you originally, but it’s what’ll motivate you daily that has a real impact on your career and your life.
ANSWER: CAREER PROGRESSION
Money is a short-term fix, but if you want a long-term career – choose progression. Choose a company that cares. If that’s the company that offers a high salary – great! But sometimes it’s not and that sacrifice is truly worth it.
- Written by Arun Sutton
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