When careers go off-script (in the best way)

You probably started your career with a plan. Study hard. Get the job. Climb the ladder.

But somewhere along the way, you realised: it doesn’t quite work like that. Careers today don’t move in straight lines. They loop, zigzag, and sometimes stall before picking up again.

It’s less like climbing a ladder and more like navigating a maze. The good news? That maze is full of unexpected opportunities – if you know how to spot them.

The old career model doesn’t hold up anymore

The traditional career path – university, graduate job, regular promotions – is becoming less common.

Research from Deloitte (2023) shows that professionals now shift roles more often, with many exploring lateral moves, career breaks or even switching industries to grow their impact.

Why? Because today’s world of work values adaptability, not just loyalty or seniority. Employers aren’t looking for someone who has followed the ‘right path’. They want someone who can evolve with the role, learn fast, and lead through change.

Key takeaway: A non-linear path doesn’t mean you’re off track. It means you’re building a career that’s resilient and future-ready.

Feeling stuck or overlooked? You’re not alone

It’s common to hit a point in your career where things feel stagnant. You’ve delivered great results. You’re capable. But the roles you’re aiming for still feel out of reach.

This experience isn’t about your ability. Often, it’s about visibility and perception.

It’s something I unpack in our blog, Turn your greatest strength into a job offer. The way you speak about your work can shape how others see your potential. If your strengths aren’t clear to the people making hiring decisions, they can be easily overlooked.

Key takeaway: If you’re doing leadership-level work but not getting recognised, the issue isn’t your talent – it’s how that talent is perceived and communicated.

Flexibility is your best asset

A winding career path isn’t a flaw. It’s proof that you’ve adapted, evolved, and kept learning.

The World Economic Forum’s 2023 Future of Jobs report names adaptability, resilience, and agility as top traits for long-term career growth.

The best careers aren’t built on straight lines. They’re built on curiosity and continuous improvement.

Key takeaway: Your five-year plan might need an update – and that’s a good thing. Stay flexible enough to shift when your goals do.

Leadership doesn’t require a title

One of the biggest myths about career progression is that you have to wait to be given leadership.

But leadership is a behaviour, not a job title.

You can demonstrate leadership now – by stepping up on a project, mentoring someone junior, or putting forward ideas that move the business forward. These things show initiative, confidence, and influence.

It’s something I explore more in The hidden meaning behind interview questions. Employers aren’t just listening for your past experience – they’re looking for clues that you already operate like a leader.

Key takeaway: Start acting like a leader today. The title will follow.

Visibility isn’t vanity – it’s career strategy

If people don’t know what you’re working on or what you’re great at, they can’t advocate for you.

That’s true inside the office, and it’s true online.

LinkedIn continues to be one of the most effective ways to build presence and attract opportunities. Profiles with up-to-date summaries, impact-focused experience and a few well-chosen skills receive far more attention – even from recruiters looking for leadership roles.

You don’t have to post daily, but you do need to be findable.

Quick wins:

• Update your headline and summary to reflect where you’re going, not just where you’ve been

• Add a few sentences to each role to show your achievements, not just your responsibilities

• Engage with others in your field by commenting on or sharing useful content

Key takeaway: Visibility doesn’t mean self-promotion. It means letting people see what you bring to the table.

Interviews aren’t just about experience – they’re about impact

Even with a strong track record, interviews can feel daunting. Especially when you’re trying to step up.

The biggest mistake people make? Assuming their resume will speak for itself.

In reality, interviews are a chance to translate your experience into value for them. You need to speak the language of outcomes and influence, not just tasks.

I break this down in The truth about interview prep: how much time do you really need? You don’t need to spend weeks getting ready, but you do need a focused plan – one that helps you anticipate what decision-makers are looking for and practice your responses around that.

Another helpful read is Proven tricks to stand out with the ‘weaknesses’ question. It’s a classic question that trips up even the most experienced candidates – not because they don’t know their weaknesses, but because they don’t know how to frame them well.

Key takeaway: Interviews aren’t won by listing achievements. They’re won by connecting your experience to what the role truly needs – and saying it with confidence.

It’s okay to shift your goals

At some point, you might realise the role you thought you wanted isn’t actually the right fit anymore.

Maybe you want more impact. Maybe you want more flexibility. Maybe you’ve simply outgrown what you once aimed for.

A 2022 study from Deakin University found that people who regularly reflect on what matters most in their careers feel more satisfied and less burnt out.

Take the time to ask: “What does success look like to me now?” The answer might surprise you.

Key takeaway: Career clarity comes from asking better questions – not sticking rigidly to old answers.

Final thoughts: the maze is the map

If your career has taken a few unexpected turns, that doesn’t mean you’re off course.

It means you’re learning. Growing. Building something that’s not just impressive, but meaningful.

Today’s career landscape rewards those who adapt, lead from where they are, and stay visible.

The twists in your career aren’t holding you back. They’re shaping your edge.

And when the next opportunity appears – whether it’s internal or external – you’ll be ready to meet it with purpose, confidence, and clarity.

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