Ask the Coach - Promotion Woes
Ask the Coach - Promotion Woes
Dear Merrill,
I’ve been working very hard over the last few years to get the promotion I’d been working towards, and last year, I was finally promoted to the role I wanted. And I’m miserable. I’ve dedicated years of work to reach this standard, and now that I’m here, I don’t understand why this was the pinnacle if I’m just going to go home more stressed, anxious, and upset each night. What should I do?
Well first let me congratulate you on your promotion. It is something to be proud of and acknowledged. However, a promotion does not always mean a happier outcome, or a better experience.
Realizing that you are unhappy after getting promoted is unfortunate, but before you make any drastic decisions, explore a few possible options.
First, establish why you are so dissatisfied – pinpoint the actual source of your unhappiness. Once you have determined this you can take steps to address those factors before running off to HR asking for your old job back!
Second, consider changing the scope of your job if possible. Are there things you can delegate? Sometimes letting go of the things that you are not good at or interested in doing allows for growth of someone else on your team, while also freeing up your time to do the tasks that you enjoy.
Third you must be honest with the person you report to – as well as yourself. If you feel you are unable to make this new role work for you, then you may need to discuss this openly. There may be other opportunities available within the company or together with your boss, you can alter or adjust the role you are in. Keep in mind there may be consequences to taking this stance.
And finally, if none of the above work, it may be time to consider other options. Update your resume and explore a position elsewhere. Not ideal but neither is staying in a job that can negatively impact your overall well being.
Best of luck!
Merrill
We have the pleasure of joining forces with Merrill Pierce, a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) accredited by Corporate Coach U, and a member of the International Coach Federation (ICF). She is also an accredited member of Society of Organizational Learning (SOL), and an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mediator certified by the ADR Institute of Canada.
Merrill has spent over 20 years working at a number of Fortune 500 companies, of which 10 years were at the senior executive level. This background provides her with a solid and practical understanding of personal and professional issues, challenges, and concerns. Merrill is also a regular contributor to the media and has published several articles and white papers on business related topics.
Merrill is ready to tackle YOUR questions! Whether they are personal, or professional - she can anonymously answer your submissions, and help you navigate any relevant challenges occurring in your life. Doing so could help others in similar situations and scenarios. Merrill will also be presenting advice on relevant, general topics to help our readers. If you want to send a question to Merrill, please submit to askmerrill@gmail.com before the Monday of each week (otherwise your question may be held til a following week!).
