Even with a solid resume, many professionals feel they are not advancing. The problem may lie in lack of visibility, the right skills, and intentional action.
Being stuck in your career, even with a good track record, is more common than it seems.
“You feel like you deliver results, have experience, but aren’t recognized. Meanwhile, others, seemingly less prepared, move ahead of you,” says Virgilio Marques dos Santos, founding partner of FM2S Educação e Consultoria, PhD from Unicamp, and career coach.
Santos explains that what’s missing for those in this situation is not an unsolvable mystery. In most cases, it boils down to three main factors: visibility (making sure the right people recognize your value), key skills (practical competencies the market demands today, such as communication, management, and strategic decision-making) and intentional action (stop waiting and start building the future you desire). “The problem is that many professionals are afraid to take that step. It’s easier to blame the environment, the boss, or the tough market conditions. However, those who truly change understand that the power of transformation starts within,” he analyzes.
According to Santos, career stagnation is usually tied to complacency with the status quo and the belief that merely completing tasks is enough. “The market has changed. Today, a diploma alone isn’t enough. What sets you apart is demonstrating problem-solving ability, leadership in uncertain scenarios, and creating innovative solutions“, he says.
Here are five practical strategies recommended by Santos to unlock your career and build new paths:
1. Reinvent your routine: propose new solutions to old problems. It can be something simple, but it should show initiative and awareness of what needs to change;
2. Learn something new and applicable: courses that combine theory and practice, focusing on everyday tools—such as leadership, agile methodologies, or team management—tend to have an immediate impact;
3. Expand your network: talking to professionals outside your usual circle can uncover opportunities and bring fresh ideas. The missing key to your breakthrough might lie with someone you haven’t met yet;
4. Showcase what you do: knowing how to communicate results is essential. “Reports, presentations, or even informal conversations are valuable moments to highlight your impact,” Santos emphasizes;
5. Embrace discomfort: moving forward requires effort. It could be a career shift, tough feedback, or an unexpected challenge. But growth happens in that discomfort.
For Santos, stagnation is a phase requiring analysis and strategic action. “The key to breaking the deadlock lies in the ability to reassess your own trajectory and take concrete steps to move forward, without waiting for circumstances to change on their own. This can start today,” he concludes.
