During my time in the corporate world, I came close to being promoted twice to a role I did not want. I was able to stop the process well in advance, earn a more appropriate promotion, and continue a path better suited to my skills and temperament. Another time I did not do it appropriately. I accepted a role and then backed out. Here’s what I learned from these three experiences.
It is always flattering to be offered what many would see as an elevation in their career. More compensation, a better title, new challenges, and greater exposure are all very tempting.
But maybe it’s not for you.
It is never a good career move to reject a promotion. Someone has risked their credibility and decision-making reputation to put your name on “the list.” Because you will be working for another person, department, or division, everyone will know you received an offer. The promotion probably means others have had to shift seats; the planning stage was already in full swing. Maybe there is a termination scheduled to make room for you. Your rejecting the promotion puts many people in a bad place, especially you. Colleagues are angry and resent the mess you have put them in. Everyone will think twice before offering anything to you. For this, and many other reasons, rejecting an offered promotion should be avoided at almost any cost.
Ask yourself these questions — (I did)
How did the offer situation get so far off track?
As you worked your way up the ladder, did you let relevant decisionmakers be aware of your long-range career goals and plans? At your last evaluation did the subject of promotion come up? Did you discuss your short and long-term aspirations with your supervisor? Does your boss’s boss know what you want? Do leaders understand how you can best serve the organization in a job other than the one they are considering?
Tip: It is your responsibility to be honest and clear, not demanding, but direct, to everyone who has a say about your career. There should be no surprises or back peddling on either side because the conversations have been ongoing regularly.
Are you setting yourself up for failure by taking this promotion?
Ask yourself, is this a bad match — you and this prospective job? Does it require skills, temperament, and/or culture that is not you? What is the track record of the position? Burn’em and turn’em? Stagnant without a future? Very political? Stepchild of the organization? Concerned you are being placed to fill a diversity requirement? Expected to boost a weak performer that management “can’t fire”? Or is this a great opportunity, for someone else?
Tip: Analyzing the situation, gathering information, and calling on your gut for some clues can help you determine if you are fearful of failure for external reasons or because it feels out of your comfort zone. On the other hand, maybe you are genuinely hearing yourself saying, “I can do this job well, despite the challenges. I am going to accept it.”
Were you honest with yourself?
Do friends, family, colleagues, and/or your boss have different ambitions and visions for you than you have for yourself? Is moving up the ladder with this promotion essential for your career, personal growth, and happiness? Probably not, but you believe it at some level. Is this the only role now and forever, available within your organization, or at another organization?
Tip: Sit down and think clearly and optimistically about what you want, need, and how you will do your best to get it? What does your life partner think?
A promotion offer and the acceptance of the offer are technically different. However, most people are not disciplined in their actions. There are emotional components to both sides of the conversation. Maybe the leader is in serious need of an employee just like you; therefore, you are part of a reaction rather than a decision. Is it possible you really want out of your current situation and will take any position to move? Is it about money? Who will be unhappy with the promotion and how will that impact your relationships? These and numerous other considerations influence the thoughts and behavior of both sides.
Many people, when giving an offer, think it is the final step. They often forget both sides are sizing up the situation, environment; the potential, tangible, and intangible details of the promotion offer.
Should you take a promotion when offered? Maybe, probably.
Should you say “yes” and then say “no”? Early in the process you could. At the final stage it is very poor form and will have lasting, negative, repercussions.
Do you have power, influence, and control of the process? Absolutely, if you are clear, timely, and aware of the emotions and thoughts of others involved.
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