Promotion or change: How to increase your career opportunities now!
Explore Cologne's current career opportunities: internal vs. external moves, salary jumps and the role of AI.

Promotion or change: How to increase your career opportunities now!
In the colorful world of career decisions, many employees are faced with a fundamental question: internal promotion or external change? Anyone who looks around Cologne will quickly notice that the industry has a major influence on this decision. Loud Radio Bielefeld An external change, especially in dynamic industries such as marketing or sales, can bring with it the appeal of a considerable salary jump of 10 to 20 percent. External applicants often have a stronger negotiating position when it comes to salary and position.
Internal promotions, on the other hand, are often more moderate and are based on existing company structures. The support of superiors plays a crucial role here. If opportunities for advancement within your own company are limited, the decision to move externally could become more important than ever. However, Bernd Slaghuis warns that internal promotion can also be attractive due to security aspects and an existing network. Ultimately, the decision should depend heavily on your personal career goals and your individual life situation.
The modern career ladder
Artificial intelligence (AI) has a profound impact on the world of work. Advances in AI, which are driven primarily by digitalization, can result in both job losses and the creation of new fields of activity. In this context, flexibility and the ability to continue training are key to success. The demands on employees are shifting: creative thinking and emotional intelligence are becoming more important, while automated processes and routine tasks are being taken over by machines.
Opportunities and challenges
When deciding whether it's time to make a change, it's important to pay attention to warning signs. Constant dissatisfaction, exhaustion or a feeling of being stuck are clear indicators that a career change should be considered. Hygiene factors such as salary and working hours can also play a role. Self-reflection is the first step here; Asking about your own strengths and values helps you find the right path.
Industries such as technology, healthcare and renewable energy are particularly open to career changers. A career change may involve an initial salary sacrifice, but has the potential for long-term benefits. Conversely, companies that use AI can gain competitive advantages, but also face the challenge of finding qualified employees. According to a study, only 6% of companies in Germany had used AI by 2019, and many open positions remained unfilled, which shows that there is a lot of catching up to do here too.
Overall, the question of the quicker route to the top is complex and depends on various factors: The decision between an internal or external move should be carefully considered, with more and more employees also recognizing the value of personal fulfillment and work-life balance. In the modern world of work, change is the only constant - and everyone should adapt to it.