career progression vs career growth

Career Progression vs. Career Growth: What’s the Difference & Which Should You Focus On?

Career progression refers to advancement within a company – moving up the corporate ladder, gaining higher titles, and increased responsibility. Career growth, however, is about expanding your skills, knowledge, and overall professional value, regardless of title. While often linked, they aren’t the same, and prioritizing growth over pure progression is crucial for long-term fulfillment.

Why This Matters (The Expert Perspective)

Most people chase progression – the next promotion, the bigger salary. This is natural, but it’s a reactive approach. Focusing solely on progression can lead to being “stuck” when opportunities don’t align, or worse, feeling unfulfilled even with a higher title. True career satisfaction comes from continuous learning and becoming exceptionally good at what you do. Growth builds resilience, adaptability, and opens doors you didn’t even know existed. Traditional networks often focus on showcasing existing achievements (progression), while neglecting the vital process of becoming more. Booking-only platforms facilitate single conversations, but lack the sustained support needed for genuine growth.

3 Steps to Prioritize Career Growth Today:

1. Identify Skill Gaps: Honestly assess where your skills need development. What’s changing in your industry? What skills do people you admire possess?
2. Embrace "Learning in Public": Share your learning journey. Document your progress, challenges, and insights. This solidifies your understanding and builds your personal brand.
3. Seek Consistent Feedback: Don’t wait for annual reviews. Regularly ask trusted colleagues and mentors for constructive criticism.

Why Menteo Accelerates Your Growth (Beyond Reading)

Reading about career growth is a great start, but doing it requires support, accountability, and a safe space to experiment. Menteo is designed for this.

We’re a Growth Network – a fundamentally different approach than traditional professional platforms. Here’s how:

• Growth Threads: Publicly document your learning journey, receive feedback from the community, and build a portfolio of your growth.
• Mentorship Rooms: Go beyond one-off advice. Benefit from structured 1:1 mentorship focused on skill development and overcoming specific challenges. This is Social Mentorship – a relationship built on shared learning – versus purely Transactional Mentorship.
• Roadmaps: Access curated learning paths designed by industry experts, guiding you step-by-step towards mastery in key areas.
• Communities: Connect with peers facing similar challenges and celebrate wins together.

Don't just plan for growth – actively pursue it. Find mentors on Menteo and unlock your full potential today.