How to Handle a Sudden and Unexpected Job Promotion
Most employees aim for a job promotion. Although it means more responsibilities, it also results to a salary bump. Add to that the prestige that comes with holding a position. Besides, if you’ve been with the company for a while, you will feel like you’re more than capable of leading the team.
There are instances when companies open the opportunity to apply for a job promotion to everyone. However, there are also times when top executives handpick the person who will head a team. Decisions are made based on experience, track record, and loyalty to the team. Therefore, even if you’re not necessarily angling for a promotion, you might be thrown into that position. These tips will help you succeed in your new role even if it’s not something you considered.
Understand the job description
Before you say yes to the role, you have to know first what the job entails. It might seem difficult, but it’s something you’re already familiar of. It could also be the other way. The title doesn’t seem to ask a lot, but you might have to deal with several responsibilities. Either way, it’s crucial that you know what is asked. It might be overwhelming when you receive a promotion, especially if you didn’t ask for it. However, you have to understand that if you failed in doing the requirement, it could backfire. You could be removed from your post, and have a hard time proving your capability to rise in the corporate ladder ever again.
Ask around
You might get information from the bosses about the responsibilities, but you won’t necessarily get the complete picture. You need to ask around to get honest responses. If you will be transferred in another department, you can talk to the employees whom you need to work with. They will tell you what the job entails, or even the reason why the previous head lost or abdicated the post. Unless you get a complete idea about what the job requires of, you might have to rethink your plans.
Take it easy
Just because you’re in a leadership post doesn’t mean you can boss people around. Your rise in power should signal humility. You can’t tell people to be better or pass more responsibilities. Take it one step at a time. Even if there are changes you want to happen, you can’t force them down people’s throats. During your first few weeks, the goal isn’t to radically change the organization. Establish relationships and ensure that you know the people you work with well. You have plenty of time to make changes. For now, it’s about building relationships so whatever change you want can easily happen.
You can do well if you take the job seriously. Don’t worry if you think you’re too immature for the role. You can learn as you go along. Ask for help and you will eventually do an excellent job.
Photo Attribution:
1st and featured image from https://www.glassdoor.com/blog/app/uploads/sites/2/iStock-694855174-e1518378458752-1200×900.jpg
2nd image from https://www.inc.com/marissa-levin/5-unexpected-changes-that-come-with-a-promotion.html
