Career growth is rarely linear. Sometimes, the opportunities that propel us forward require us to pivot in unexpected directions. In February 2023, I was thriving at Shopify, a company that provided me with ample room to grow and make an impact. Shopify even sent me to Los Angeles for an in-person event to work directly with merchants—an experience that was incredibly rewarding. But when an offer from a startup bookkeeping company came my way, I had to ask myself: Is it time to take a different role to advance my career?
Deciding when to make a career move is rarely easy, but there are certain signs and circumstances that signal it's time to embrace a new challenge.
1. You've Gained Mastery in Your Current Role
After spending time excelling in your current position, you may start feeling as though you've reached a plateau. At Shopify, I had achieved a great deal. From helping merchants optimize their e-commerce stores to leading projects that directly impacted customer success, I felt confident in my abilities. The experience was invaluable, but I also realized that my growth was beginning to level off.
When you've mastered the key aspects of your role and find yourself looking for new challenges, it may be time to consider a move. A new role can offer fresh opportunities to stretch your skills and learn something new.
2. You’re Offered a Role That Aligns with Your Long-Term Goals
While I loved my time at Shopify, the offer from the startup bookkeeping company aligned perfectly with my long-term vision. I’ve always been passionate about helping businesses succeed, especially when it comes to operational efficiency and financial health. The opportunity to work with a startup in the bookkeeping industry allowed me to dive deeper into this space and make a meaningful impact.
If a new role offers you a clearer path toward your long-term professional goals, it’s worth serious consideration. Sometimes, advancing your career means stepping outside of your comfort zone and moving into a role that positions you closer to your aspirations.
3. The New Role Offers More Ownership and Influence
One of the most appealing aspects of joining the startup bookkeeping company was the increased level of ownership I would have. While Shopify allowed me to manage and guide merchants, this new role offered the chance to help shape a growing company from the ground up. Being part of a startup meant I could contribute directly to decision-making processes, operational strategies, and the company’s overall direction.
When evaluating whether to switch roles, consider the influence and ownership you’ll have in your new position. Startups often provide opportunities to work more autonomously, drive projects from inception to completion, and have a greater say in the company's future. If you’re looking for more influence over your work and career trajectory, a change might be exactly what you need.
4. You Want to Broaden Your Skill Set
Changing roles can be an excellent way to develop new skills. At Shopify, I had honed my expertise in e-commerce and customer success. However, the startup bookkeeping company presented the opportunity to expand my skill set in financial management, bookkeeping operations, and leadership in a fast-paced startup environment.
Broadening your skill set is crucial for long-term career success. Taking a role in a different industry or with different responsibilities can give you a competitive edge by making you more versatile. Look at the new role and ask yourself what new skills you’ll learn and how they’ll contribute to your overall career growth.
5. The Timing is Right
Timing plays a crucial role in career decisions. In my case, I had accomplished many of my goals at Shopify and felt ready for a new challenge. The startup offer came at a time when I was seeking greater ownership and influence in my work. Moving to the startup allowed me to strike while the iron was hot and capitalize on an exciting new opportunity.
Timing isn’t always perfect, but if a new role feels like it aligns with your personal and professional situation, it may be worth taking the leap. Weigh the benefits against the risks and consider whether now is the right moment to make a change.
Making the Leap to a New Opportunity
Transitioning from Shopify to the startup wasn’t easy. I loved my work, the people I collaborated with, and the company’s mission. But making the decision to leave a role you’ve outgrown in favor of one that offers more growth, alignment with your goals, and increased influence can unlock doors to new opportunities.
When considering a career change, trust your instincts and take stock of your long-term vision. A new role may seem daunting, but it can ultimately be the key to unlocking new levels of success and fulfillment.
Final Thoughts
Taking a different role to further your career can be a powerful move when done thoughtfully. In my case, leaving Shopify to join a startup bookkeeping company was a pivotal step that helped me expand my skill set, gain more ownership in my work, and align myself with my long-term professional goals. If you're considering a career change, think about your current role, where you want to go, and whether the new opportunity can help you get there.
Embracing change is often the key to career growth. When the right opportunity presents itself, don’t be afraid to take the leap. You may just find that the next role is exactly what you need to take your career to the next level.
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