You never know how valuable a tool or instrument can be until you need it. Recently during the latest snow storm, I found myself using a ladder to do some of the household jobs. The ladder made it convenient and easy to complete the jobs because of its ability to elevate me to the height needed. The ladder made it safe for me to change light bulbs, take down Christmas decorations, remove snow from the top of vehicles, check smoke detectors, dust furniture, etc.

Just as the ladder can be a means of doing a job safely, it can also be dangerous if a person does not know how to use it properly. There comes a time when the elderly or physically unstable should dismiss themselves from going too high on a ladder.  

While standing on the ladder, I began to think about the challenges and means of climbing the corporate ladder in America. It is a process of taking one step at a time.   

As I reflect on some of my experiences in the workplace, I can remember how the system of moving up on some jobs was less than fair and equitable.  There were those who abused administrative procedures and guidelines when seeking promotions in corporate America.  There are some people who will do anything and I mean anything to advance themselves in the corporate world. If we are not careful, the corporate ladder can be very dangerous, if not used properly. The corporate ladder is referenced when we speak about persons in a workplace advancing to higher positions. When we begin a job, an entry level position is considered the bottom of the ladder, while upper management and executives are at the top.

The danger is when persons use any technique, means or strategy necessary to climb the corporate ladder. They are not considerate or concerned about how they get to the top, just as long as they get there. Sometimes it is a matter of stepping on others without considering their worth and success on the same job. Some will go even to the extreme of lying to get what their heart so desire. Caution is advised to persons who are so desperate to reach the top that the feelings of others are not taken into consideration.  It has often been said that the same people you pass going up the ladder, may be some of the same ones you pass on your way down.  

You may remember the story in the Bible regarding the Tower of Babel. Humans tried to build a structure that would reach up to heaven and allow them access to God (Genesis 11:14). They were trying to build a gate to heaven, but God stepped in and foiled their plans by confusing their language and dispersing them among the nations. We are to be reminded that we do not get to God by climbing a ladder, rather waiting for God to come down the ladder. In Philippians 2:6, God left heaven to come to earth so that we might have access to Him.  

The danger was in this statement found in scripture, “Come, let us build ourselves a city and a tower with its top in the heavens, and let us make a name for ourselves” (Genesis 11: 6).” The people were interested in making their own name great, rather than magnifying the Name of God. Take time and read the entire story in Genesis 11:1-9.

Doesn’t it bother you when persons will build themselves up so that their names might be glorified rather than God. Even on the job when the organization is not the priority, rather the individual.  There is nothing wrong with advancing on our jobs, but be sure it is because we have worked hard and proven ourselves to be worthy. “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward” (Colossians 3:23).   

Another means of climbing the corporate ladder is nepotism. Doesn’t it break your heart when you know you are ready for a promotion and a relative of the supervisor gets the job because of kinship and kissing up.   

My experience has always been that if we work hard, maintain a level of integrity, do the job well and put our trust in God, the promotion will come if it is in God’s plan.

If you are seeking a promotion or attempting to advance yourself, remember these words: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” (Luke 6:31).   

Just my thoughts!

Robert Earl Slade, Pastor