Take a Step Back to Move Forward

With your ambitious spirit, would you ever consider taking a lower level job to get ahead later? It worked for Estee Lauder’s Senior Vice President of Global Marketing Elana Drell-Szyfer. To get that dream job you’ve always wanted, you sometimes have to take a step back to take a step forward.

“My first real break was when I had the opportunity to work for somebody who saw a talent in me,” says Drell-Szyfer.  “He said, ‘I don’t have the perfect job for you right now, but if you do this job that is slightly below your skill level for a period of time, I will help you get the next job you really want.’ He was true to his promise and helped me get my first job marketing.”

Here are some reasons to consider this:

From changing careers, necessity or even moving to a different area in your company, taking a smaller position might propel your career forward if the job fits into a larger long-term plan.

Temporarily taking a step down on the hierarchy may come with fewer benefits, but your newly-acquired skills could get you the promotion you really want.

Also, if you are unemployed, holding out for the perfect C-level position might devalue your marketability.

PINK Profile: Drell-Szyfer shares how she runs digital marketing for Estee Lauder Cosmetics empire while raising three young daughters.

By Muriel Vega

“I never dreamed about success, I worked for it.” Estee Lauder