Understanding career paths
Career paths provide employees with visibility into their potential future within the organisation. They answer the question "where can I go from here?" by mapping out roles, requirements, and progression possibilities. Clear paths support retention, motivation, and workforce planning.
Vertical paths
- Promotions up hierarchy
- Increased responsibility
- Management progression
- Leadership roles
Horizontal paths
- Cross-functional moves
- New skill development
- Broadening experience
- Specialist deepening
Types of career paths
Organisations typically offer several types of career progression:
Career path options
Building career paths
- Map roles: Document all positions and their relationships
- Define requirements: Skills, experience, qualifications for each level
- Identify transitions: What moves are possible between roles
- Document criteria: How employees qualify for advancement
- Communicate: Make paths visible to all employees
Not everyone wants management
Don't assume all career paths lead to management. Many employees prefer to develop as individual contributors or specialists. Create technical/expert tracks alongside management paths to retain skilled people who don't want to manage.
Benefits of career paths
For employees
- Visibility of opportunities
- Clear development goals
- Motivation to grow
- Career planning support
For employers
- Better retention
- Succession planning
- Internal talent pipeline
- Employee engagement
Common career path mistakes
Only vertical paths
When promotion is the only progression option, valuable employees who can't or don't want to advance feel stuck. Include lateral moves and skill development in career paths.
Vague progression criteria
When employees don't know what's required to advance, frustration builds. Define clear, specific criteria for each level so employees know what to work toward.
Hidden opportunities
If career paths exist but aren't communicated, employees don't benefit. Make paths visible and discuss them in development conversations.
Key takeaways
Career paths show employees their future potential within the organisation. Effective paths include vertical and horizontal options, clear criteria, and regular conversations about development. They're essential for retention and engagement.
RosterElf's staff management helps Australian businesses develop their teams with efficient scheduling and workforce management.
