In the fast-paced world of the IT industry, the concept of "downgrading" one's career—often perceived negatively—can actually serve as a strategic tool for growth. Alexander Chistilin, head of the sales automation department at Vi.Tech, recently shared his insights in a podcast with Artem Pulyavin, former CTO of Citymobil. They explored the nuances of career transitions that may appear as setbacks on paper but can lead to significant advancement in practice.
Chistilin emphasizes that downgrading should not be narrowly defined by job titles alone. A role change could involve moving from CTO to engineering manager or from head of engineering to team lead. It might also mean narrowing one's responsibilities or even shifting to a smaller team. In some cases, individuals might accept a pay cut to enter a more promising environment, while in others, the perceived status remains the same but the influence diminishes.
A key takeaway from their discussion is the importance of understanding what one is gaining or losing in such transitions. If the exchange is meaningful and strategic, it can lead to growth; otherwise, it risks being merely a retreat from current challenges.
Pulyavin shared a compelling example from his own career. He took a position at Citymobil that came with a 30% salary decrease and a return to a standard engineering role. Initially, this might have seemed like a career misstep, but within six months, he became a team lead, and within a year, he was managing a direction as the company expanded from thirty to four hundred developers. This experience underscores the potential benefits of intentional downgrades, where individuals may temporarily concede in one dimension to gain in another, such as entering a more dynamic work environment or engaging in more meaningful projects.
Chistilin identified several scenarios where downgrading could be justified. A common situation is reaching a plateau where growth stalls despite stability in role and compensation. Another might involve a desire for different experiences, such as entering international markets or adapting to new management cultures. Moreover, joining a rapidly growing company can often be more beneficial at a lower level than clinging to a high-status position in a stagnant organization.
However, deciding to downgrade is rarely simple. Concerns about financial stability, external perceptions, and the fear of making an irreversible choice can weigh heavily on individuals. Chistilin advises that before making such a decision, one should clearly articulate their career challenges without clichés. Identifying specific needs—such as a lack of growth or a desire for more hands-on experience—can help clarify the path forward.
Ultimately, setting a long-term vision for one's career and analyzing personal economics in the context of potential job changes can lead to more informed choices. As the tech industry continues to evolve, leaders and professionals alike must navigate these decisions with careful consideration, as what may appear to be a step back could ultimately pave the way for greater achievements. This perspective may encourage others in the market to rethink their own career strategies, potentially leading to a shift in how roles and experiences are valued across the industry.
Informational material. 18+.
