The process of progressing to higher levels of responsibility, authority, or compensation within one's professional field or organization.
The concept emerged during the industrial era when hierarchical corporate structures created clear advancement paths. It became prominent in the mid-20th century with the rise of large corporations and standardized career ladders. The term reflects the shift from craft-based work to professional management structures.
The traditional 'career ladder' metaphor is increasingly being replaced by 'career lattice' or 'career jungle gym' as modern careers involve more lateral moves, skill pivots, and non-linear paths. The concept of 'climbing the corporate ladder' is actually quite recent historically - most pre-industrial work was craft-based without hierarchical advancement.
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