The Internal Promotion Dilemma: When You Can, But Don’t Want It
By Emily - Mindful Career Journey
Have you ever found yourself being tapped on the shoulder for a promotion - knowing you're more than qualified, but feeling zero desire to apply? Yet, at the same time, the thought of reporting to one of the less qualified candidates makes your stomach turn?
This is the mental tug-of-war many high performers face in corporate environments.
Your brain says, “If I don’t go for it, I’ll end up working for someone who might not be competent or the best person for the role.”
But your gut says, “I don’t want this role.”
It’s a stressful situation. Here are some thoughts to consider:
✅ Ownership & Dedication: You've invested years of expertise, built relationships, and taken pride in your contributions to the company. You want what’s best for the company, more than capable of doing the job well, have doubts of the other candidates and you may have to spend time mentoring and showing the selected person the ropes.
✅ Control vs. Resentment: If you opt out, are you prepared to accept the outcome without resentment? If you stay silent and dislike the result, will you regret it for not taking control of the situation?
✅ Cultural Pressure: Many corporate cultures equate ambition with success. If you’re seen passing on an opportunity, will it send the wrong message? Will it impact future promotions you do want?
✅ Sacrification: What may you have to give up for the promotion?
Time with family?
Leisure time for your hobbies?
So, what’s the right move?
There’s no universal answer, but here are some questions to ask yourself:
🔹 Define Your Career Goals: Are you saying no because you truly don’t want this role or because you’re burned out? Would you regret the decision a year from now?
🔹 Consider Influence Over Title: If leadership is important to you, are there alternative ways to have an influence without taking the role? Could you advise or mentor instead? Is there a steering committee you can join?
🔹 Decide How You’ll Feel Post-Decision: If you don’t apply and your least-favorite candidate gets the job, can you live with it? If the answer is no, you may have your answer.
