Career in Y and in X: Know the differences

In the professional world you can follow several paths and among them is the career in Y and in X, which are different but still very attractive to people.

Today we will understand the main differences between these two types of careers.

Difference between career in Y and in X

Y-shaped and X-shaped careers are two career development models that differ in terms of progression, structure and approach to professional growth.

In Y

The Y career is a type of career plan that allows professionals to choose two different paths, managerial and technical.

Those who work in this area start on a single path and at some point in their professional career find themselves in the possibility of following different forks.

For example, someone who starts out as an engineer may progress to management positions. engineering and, eventually, to executive positions.

This model emphasizes specialization in a single functional or knowledge area. Professionals seek to become experts in their field and advance vertically.

Those who follow a Y-shaped career plan will be able to reach higher positions, growing vertically and hierarchically.

It is common for this model to offer more stability, as professionals are adhering to a specific growth path.

In X

We also have the X career, in which a more linear path of development follows.

In this type of career, the professional is not concerned with achieving certain activities as a goal. In fact, anyone who chooses this career path already knows where they want to go and where their goals will be achieved.

And to do this, the professional in question will not care about the functions they have within a position, but rather about doing their best to move up the ranks and achieve the goals they want.

This model values versatility and the ability of professionals to play both leadership and technical roles.

It is often called an exponential career, aiming to have any role that leads to your ultimate purpose.

The most important thing for professionals who are on a career path in X is that they are versatile and prepared to act in numerous roles, just as they need to be ready to be flexible in their learning.

This is why professionals in X careers tend to accumulate a wide range of experiences and skills.

Although a career in X offers flexibility, there is a risk of professionals becoming stuck in intermediate positions without advancing to senior positions.

We can then understand that the main differences between careers in Y and X are the structure and form of progression, as well as the focus they have, differentiated by activities and positions.

Choosing between these models depends on personal goals, preferences and the culture of the organization in which you work.

Furthermore, there are other career plans, such as the network and W careers that allow new ways to achieve goals.