The other day we gathered together a group of people in career transition. We provided a “safe zone“ for participants to talk about anything and everything related to their career transition.

It was amazing how quickly the participants created a platform, on which they felt connected, opened up and took the courage to talk. They talked about their experiences during the process, their success stories, their problem areas, their disappointments and so on.

At some point the discussion turned to the competitive job market. How to uphold ones ethical standards, integrity and fairness while “moving forward” and whilst being under pressure to find a job was a point of concern. 

It turned out to be quite a heated discussion and also very emotional at times. There were a number of different opinions. Some of the participants admitted for example that they had moved forward at the cost of others and had ignored some of their values for their personal advancement.

The closing discussion involved the question: If this was the way in which they had moved forward, could they really be proud of their achievements? Could they, in all honesty, congratulate themselves for having moved forward under these circumstances?

In the end there was a clear consent: Letting go of one’s own ethical standards and values in order to progress is not the way forward.  It will not pay off in the long-term.

What about you? Would you be tempted to let go of your ethical standards and values in times of pressure in order to progress in your career? 

I would love to know your opinion.Contact me

Take the courage to move forward.