The Career Risks Worth Taking (and How to Know When to Take Them)

Early on in your career, the idea of taking risks can be both exciting and terrifying. Should you quit your stable job for a startup? Is it smart to move to a new city without a job lined up? The truth is, calculated risks can be the key to growth—they push you out of your comfort zone, help you build new skills, and open doors you never expected. It’s knowing when to take a risk and when to hold back that makes all the difference. Here’s how to identify career risks that are worth taking, when to embrace them, and how to weigh the potential rewards and consequences.

What Are “Good” Career Risks?

Not all risks are reckless. In fact, the best career risks are strategic moves that challenge you without completely derailing your progress. Here are a few examples of career risks that often pay off:

Applying for Jobs You’re Not 100% Qualified For

It’s common for job seekers, especially recent graduates, to hesitate if they don’t meet every qualification in a job posting. That said, here’s the secret: most hiring managers don’t expect candidates to check every single box—they’re looking for potential, adaptability, and a willingness to learn.

The risk factor involved in applying for a job you’re not 100% qualified for is moderate, but the potential reward is pretty great. Landing a role that accelerates your growth and expands your skillset is never a bad thing, and you might also find yourself making a great salary. If you’re thinking of applying for a job you’re not 100% qualified for, build your candidacy around transferable skills and demonstrate how your past experiences make you a strong fit.

Switching Industries or Career Paths

Making a career pivot, whether it’s moving from marketing to tech or finance to nonprofit work, can feel risky. You might worry about starting from scratch or facing a learning curve, but career pivots often lead to greater fulfillment and align better with long-term goals.

Admittedly, the risk factor here is quite high depending on the type of shift you want to make, but if you’re successful you’ll be rewarded with a career that better aligns with your passions, values, and strengths. To prepare for a career pivot, start networking with professionals in the new industry and gain an understanding of the expectations that are involved.

Next, consider whether you want to make a lateral move or if you’re willing to start all over. Keep in mind that starting all over may include a significant decrease in your salary, while a lateral move will help you to better maintain your momentum.

Moving for a Job Opportunity

Relocating for work, especially to a new city or country, can feel like a major gamble; however, it’s also a chance to expand your horizons, build independence, and access new networks. Moving for a job presents moderate to high risk, so you’ll want to ensure that you’ll have stability at your new job so you can thrive. If you’re considering moving for a job opportunity, ask yourself the following questions:

• Does the company have a strong track record of stability?
• Are there growth opportunities beyond the initial role?
• Can you afford the move if things don’t work out?

Negotiating Your Salary

Asking for more money can be nerve-wracking, especially early in your career. That said, failing to negotiate can leave you underpaid for years. Remember, negotiation is expected, and companies rarely rescind offers because someone asked for more. There is virtually no risk involved in negotiating your salary, and the reward for successful negotiation is a higher salary—who wouldn’t want that?

It's important to remember that a higher salary also means higher earnings in future roles, since raises are often based on your current salary. For more on how to negotiate your salary like a pro, check out our previous advice here.

When Not to Take a Career Risk

While bold moves can lead to growth, some risks may not be worth the gamble, especially if the downsides outweigh potential gains. For example, quitting your job without a solid plan can backfire spectacularly if you don’t have savings or any strong job leads. In other words, it’s best to have some kind of safety net in place before you go taking any risks.

Throughout your career, you’ll realize how important it is to trust your gut. If something feels off during your job search, such as a vague job description or a company with high employee turnover, don’t ignore your instincts. A toxic workplace culture is never worth the risk, even when a higher salary is involved.

Along with a toxic workplace culture, companies that require you to sacrifice your personal ethics should be at the top of the list of things that are not worth the risk. It’s always better to work for a company that aligns with your values—you’ll have far less stress, and you’ll feel good about what you’re doing.

Lastly, don’t bank on a “dream job” without doing research first. A flashy title or company name doesn’t guarantee long-term happiness. Always look deeper into growth potential, management style, and work/life balance.

How to Weigh Career Risks Effectively

Not sure if a career move is worth the leap? Use this framework to make thoughtful decisions:

Assess the Potential Upside

• Will this opportunity help you develop valuable skills?
• Does it align with your long-term goals?
• Could it significantly boost your earning potential?

Evaluate the Downside

• What’s the worst-case scenario? Can you handle it financially and emotionally?
• If things don’t work out, how easy would it be to pivot or recover?
• Are there hidden risks (like job instability or a toxic workplace environment)?

Consider Your Current Career Stage

When you’re early in your career, you have more flexibility to take risks because you’re still building experience. As you gain responsibilities, like managing a team or supporting a family, risk tolerance may shift.

With everything being said, perhaps the biggest career risk is never taking any risks. While not every bold move will lead to success, avoiding risks altogether can stall your growth. The key is to be strategic: analyze the potential rewards, understand the risks, and prepare for setbacks. At the end of the day, your career isn’t a straight path—it’s a series of calculated leaps.