QUESTION: Promoted or Not?


Dear Merry,

I am the Director of HR at a global organization and I report into the VP of Human Resources of North America. My boss has been promoted to Global VP of HR and I have applied for my boss' job. My boss mentioned on our last call that I could count on him through the upcoming changes for support and alluded to the fact that I would be reporting to a new leader. This really took me by surprise - so much so that I did not ask any questions. I am wondering if I did or did not get the job? How do you think I should handle this situation?


RESPONSE: Direct Communication

Dear Executive,

I am glad you asked this question because these types of situations come up often in the workplace. Usually we hesitate to ask the tough questions directly, and wait for others to come to us to open these difficult conversations. My feeling is that questions about issues that impact you are fair to pose and I find that a direct approach is generally appreciate by others in the workplace. The coaching that follows is based on this premise, however if your culture does not welcome direct communication then you will adjust these recommendations so that your approach is acceptable in your culture.

Here are my suggestions:
1. Have a Conversation with Your Boss: Schedule some time with your boss and ask him directly if you got the job:
a. Let him know that you would like to clarify what you heard on your recent call. You could say, "You stated that these are changing times in the company and I agree. I also heard you say that you would be a support to me in my relationship with my new boss. So I want be direct and ask - has your replacement been chosen?
b. If he says the replacement has been chosen then ask, "Would you explain the process to me?
2. Stay Positive: If you've missed a chance to be promoted, don't be entirely discouraged. Changing times in any company means lots of opportunity for advancement. Leverage this experience to better position yourself next time.
3. Learn Strengths & Gaps: Ask what your boss saw as your strengths for the position. Then ask what he would need to see from you in the future to place you as the #1 candidate for a similar position.
4. Be Professional: Don't ask these questions from an accusatory or downtrodden point of view. Ask as an employee who wants to stay engaged.
5. If You Are Still in The Game: If a successor has not yet been decided:
" Ask for details on the hiring process. Will you be interviewed? And if so, by whom?
" Then meet with all of the stakeholders that will be interviewing candidates (or influencing the decision) and understand their point of view. What qualities do they feel are most important for a candidate?
" People may not be aware of all of your skills, experience and qualifications. Understanding what they are looking for in a successor will give you the opportunity to highlight your qualifications appropriately.
" This legwork will put you out in front of the pack and will start to establish you as a serious contender.

It does not serve anyone to shrink from having direct professional conversations. As a valued contributor to the organization you are entitled to ask questions and seek information about issues that impact your career. It is never a good idea to sit and churn over the possibilities in your mind. You'll be more productive, creative and learn more by simply addressing the situation head-on.

Best of luck with this opportunity!

Dare to Deliver!
Merry


Merry Marcus
President
www.breakthroughconsulting.com



  Copyright 2007, Break Through Consulting