Sideways Moves, Stalled Careers & Hidden Talent: The Skills Trap Businesses Don’t See
There’s a pattern happening in UK work that almost no one talks about.
When lower-skilled workers are displaced, whether by automation, AI or economic change, they don’t move upwards. They move sideways.
According to a CIPD report, displaced workers usually end up in roles that:
require similar low-level skills
are in sectors also in decline
offer little progression.
This creates a cycle:
Low-skill job → displacement → another low-skill job → eventual workforce exit.
And SMEs see the consequences first:
capability gaps
high turnover
low progression
limited problem-solving
managers stretched thin
But here’s the twist:
This isn’t a talent issue.
It’s a skills visibility issue.
Most workers have unrealised capability
Many employees have:
hidden strengths
underused skills
personal experience they never mention
transferable skills they don’t recognise
interests or talents outside their job description
The report shows that over a third of workers aged 50+ feel underused, and younger workers often lack the confidence to highlight their strengths.
That’s a huge well of talent SMEs aren’t tapping.
Why people stay stuck
The report outlines several reasons people get “career-stuck”:
Training declines with age
Confidence drops after career setbacks
Progression pathways are unclear
Learning feels inaccessible
Workers underestimate their capability
Employers assume people are “fine”
This isn’t laziness.
It’s a lack of visibility and support.
The SME opportunity: spot talent they don’t see in themselves
If you want to break the sideways-move cycle:
1. Introduce “skills spotting” conversations
Ask employees what they enjoy, where they feel underused, and what hidden strengths they have.
2. Use scenario-based learning to build confidence
Show them they can think, solve and lead, not just follow tasks.
3. Give small stretch opportunities
Micro-leadership.
Process improvement.
Light mentoring.
Small projects.
4. Capture capabilities, not just competencies
People are more than their job titles.
5. Make learning accessible
Short, relevant training builds confidence faster than big courses.
Want to uncover the hidden capability inside your team?
If you’d prefer a bit of structure and support as you build these skills, SkillSmart Manager: 30 Days to a Stronger Team offers a simple, practical way to get started.