4 Potential Drawbacks of Getting a Promotion
In general, most people view a promotion as a good thing. Obviously, getting a promotion means more money, more autonomy, greater job security, and a higher business status. Yet, as any experienced business leader can tell you, not all promotions are blessings. In fact, some turn out to be poisoned chalices. While it’s excellent to have big career aspirations, the reality is that you don’t have to take a promotion if you don’t think it’s a good fit for you. To that end, today we’ll explore four potential drawbacks of promotions and why should think twice before climbing the corporate ladder:
Lack of Options
On one hand, achieving a promotion typically guarantees a solid amount of job security. The flipside of this coin is an inability to explore other employment options. Indeed, many companies insist on putting non-compete clauses into their executive contracts, which means that if you get a better offer from a rival company, you won’t be able to take it. Bottom line: don’t accept a promotion unless you plan on seeing out your contract.
Longer Hours
Most promotions involve taking on some form of leadership role. Yet, business management might not come naturally to everyone. It’s easy to see why plenty of capable professionals might not want all the responsibilities and challenges that come with a higher position in a company. What’s more, managers may be asked to work longer hours than the “average” employee. So individuals may have to sacrifice valuable free time in order to keep their new position.
Unfair Criticism
Can failure be a valuable learning experience? Absolutely. Still, some promotions don’t actually help professionals advance in their career. Rather, these unwanted vacancies are unwanted for a reason, and they’re practically set up for the occupant to fail. If you feel that a new job lacks sufficient managerial support, or that you don’t have the experience/skills to take it on, pass on it. Otherwise, you could end up facing a hopeless situation that will open you up to unfair criticism that will tarnish your reputation.
Inability to Follow Your Passion
Not everyone dreams of a big corner office and a seven-figure salary. Business ambition comes in many forms. This is why it’s important to ask yourself what you value most before you accept a promotion. Perhaps you enjoy your current position, or maybe you’ve always wanted to branch out and learn about molecular biology and use sophisticated tools like serum tubes. Regardless of your life or career goals, promotions can sometimes act as a hindrance to those ends as opposed to a boost. If that’s the case, then look for a better alternative. Trust us, it’ll be worth it in the long run.