Snowshoe hiking in the Swiss Alps might not seem like the most obvious metaphor for your next career move, but hear me out. Last winter, I joined the Swiss Alpine Club for a trek in Val Müstair. Perfect weather, stunning scenery, great company—and a climb of 600 to 1,000 metres.
It was hard work. But I had a small yet mighty helper: a Steighilfe—literally “climbing help” in German. This little gadget lifts your heel by five centimetres with each step, making the ascent easier. It doesn’t remove the effort, but it reduces the strain so you can keep going.
That’s how career climbing works, too.
Want to climb your career ladder without burning out? Get practical tips to work smarter and live better in my book, Focus in the Age of Distraction.
Why Career Climbing Isn’t a Solo Sport
Many people believe career success is all about grit, endurance, and sheer willpower. But even the most experienced mountaineers use tools—GPS, maps, and guidebooks—and very few climb alone.
In your career, a “climbing helper” might be a coach, mentor, sponsor, or strong network. These people (and sometimes the right training courses or resources) guide you when the path is unclear, reduce unnecessary struggle, and help you move forward with less exhaustion.
You still need to do the climbing—but you don’t have to do it without a rope.
Step-by-Step: Building Skills and Confidence
Snowshoe hiking isn’t about giant leaps to the summit. It’s an intentional, steady climb. Rush, and you burn out. Stop too long, and you may never reach the peak before dark.
The career ladder works the same way. Progress comes from small, consistent actions:
- Communicating your ideas in meetings
- Advocating for yourself
- Saying yes to opportunities that stretch your skills
- Seeking professional development in your industry
At first, stepping outside your comfort zone can feel awkward. But with time—and the right support—it becomes second nature. Each action is a step up towards your career goals.
Who Is Your Career Climbing Helper?
If you’re working towards your dream job, ask yourself:
- Who in your network could offer advice or encouragement?
- What steps can you take this week to grow your skill development?
- Where could you ask for help to move forward in your current role?
Your “helper” could be an experienced colleague who shares leadership tips, a manager who spots opportunities for you, or a mentor who helps you plan your future strategy. Sometimes it’s a guide in the form of structured training options or qualifications.
Hard Work, But Less Strain
Career climbing will always take effort. You still need to put in the hours, navigate the challenges, and make strategic choices. But when you have the right employers, allies, and resources on your side, the climb feels less exhausting—and far more achievable.
So take your next step. Update your LinkedIn profile. Look into jobs in your industry that excite you. Explore a training course that aligns with your career goals. Seek out that mentor you’ve been meaning to contact.
Because success isn’t about fearless confidence—it’s about taking the next step, with the right support, until you reach the top.
If you’d like a “climbing helper” for your own career journey, let’s have a chat. I can help you create a strategy for reaching your peak—without burning out on the way up.
