A lateral job is one where a person changes departments or locations within the company. The employee as well as the company may benefit. While the new job may not provide the same level of responsibility and pay as the old one, it could still provide a chance for the employee to develop their career.
A promotion, on the other hand, is a step up in responsibilities or pay. This is often the result of a successful performance evaluation or an employer who realizes that the employee has potential for advancement within the company.
These terms are used interchangeably, but have some key differences. A lateral transfer is usually a job that has the same requirements as the employee's former position, but with more responsibility.
There's usually a lower salary than in the employee's last job, and this can be viewed as a disadvantage by some employers.
Planning and negotiation are often required by both the employee and supervisor to make lateral moves. It may take months, or even years, to plan and negotiate a lateral move.
A lateral change can sometimes be the answer to a difficult working environment, or even a conflict. An employee may need to move if their manager is no longer supportive or if the culture of the company is toxic. The employee can re-engage in their work by moving to a different department.
Besides the fact that it can be a good way to boost your career, a lateral move can also have a positive effect on your personal life. In the new workplace, you may meet new colleagues and form friendships that will last a lifetime. Having more people in your social circle can be great for your mental health, which can have a profound impact on how you perform at work and in your personal life.
You will also be exposed to a new culture or method of doing things. It can give you a new perspective on what it's like to be in the business world and can help you learn more about your own personal interests.
It can be a great way to break away from the rut of a specific position or it can be the right choice for someone who is just tired of their current job and wants to change up their daily routine. This can be an excellent move for those who are just beginning their careers and need to gain some experience before moving on to a bigger organization.
A lateral job move can be positive for an employee but is not always good for the business. A company might be reluctant about letting an experienced and highly-skilled worker leave his department because it fears losing that employee's talent or ability as a leader.