The traditional view of a career often conjures up the image of a ladder—a linear path leading upwards, one rung at a time. However, this metaphor is increasingly inaccurate and incomplete for capturing the complexities and diversities of modern careers. The ladder analogy presupposes a one-dimensional trajectory, focusing only on promotions and the hierarchical ascent.

Some important readings:

• The Corporate Lattice: Achieving High Performance in the Changing World of Work by Cathy Benko and Molly Anderson.
• The New Rules of Work: The Modern Playbook for Navigating Your Career by Alexandra Cavoulacos and Kathryn Minshew.
• The 100-Year Life: Living and Working in an Age of Longevity by Lynda Gratton and Andrew Scott.