I’ve been at my current company for about 9 months. Previously, I worked in retail management, but I chose to change fields (If you’ve worked retail, you already know)
About 1 month in, I was approached by my manager and asked if I was interested in management. I thought, of course, that’s what I do.. so we started developing a plan. I did additional classes/trainings, received additional certifications and joined committees. I attended all meetings, social gathering/team building exercises. I ensured I was the top performer in all metrics and coached my peers.
Finally, there was an open management position. I was encouraged to apply, my recommendations were written, I was prepped for interviews and took on even more responsibilities. I was training all new hires and delegating tasks to existing employees all while still being paid the same as everyone else.
The conversations were always “when” I get the promotion, not “if”. It was a sure thing. There were only a handful of applicants and I was assured I was the only qualified candidate and the only one being advanced for an interview. It was practically mine.
Well, I was just informed my Area Manager has decided to step down and was immediately given the position. That’s it. No further discussion and no more opportunities in the foreseeable future.
My biggest takeaway from the experience.. Do only what is in your job description and exactly what you are paid to do. I was still the top performer and would have been the top pick regardless of whatever extra effort I put in. Sometimes things just don’t work out no matter how hard you try.