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Friday 10 October 2014

The Power of Reflection

Last week I applied for a promotion at work. It was a big leap, I knew with a struggle I'd be able to do it I just had to fight my ass of in interview to get it. I ummed and arred for ages about whether of not i should apply for it. I discussed it with my line manager who said she had every faith in me and she would miss me (as it meant changing departments) but she gave me a glowing reference and told me to go for it.
I talked it through with CJ who told me to go for it. It's worth a try and if I dont get it then its not the end of the world. It's not like we need it, as I have a job. I felt silly applying for it, that people would laugh at me for thinking I'd get it. I thought they wouldn't take my application seriously and I wouldn't even get an interview.
Everyone talked me down, said I was being silly for thinking this. CJ helped me fill in my application and write my letter. Then I handed it in. There was no going back, although I did contemplate ringing them up and withdrawing my application.
I heard of one girl getting one of the positions and thinking if she can do it, I certainly can.

Then I got a phone call off the manager bringing me in for an interview. My heart was in my mouth, I did so much preparation I was feeling confident. I was nervous as nervous gets going to the interview but just nerves. I did so much preparation I was feeling confident and even thought I might get it.

Then I got to the interview, which wasnt an interview at all, but basically I'd been called in for them to tell me I hadn't got it, they explained about the nature of the job and thought that by giving it me they would be setting me up to fail. They didnt ask me a single question, apart from how many hours do I do and if I do set days. The rest was talking at me and making me feel small and inadequate. I felt stupid that I'd even applied and a complete idiot for,thinking I was in with a chance.

I was given two options...
1. I could move to a different department, gain experience and knowledge working in the current position I'm in and see where I am in six months time. 
They are currently in the process of rotating staff around departments for skill mix, and this to me felt like it was their way of moving me but making it my decision and under the pretence that it would enhance my experience, but then I'd get nowhere and be on a department I hated. Thinking about this it felt like they were setting me up here. Knowing I wouldn't like it on that department and that I would request to leave and therefore sabotaging my chances.

2. I could stay were I am and if a more senior role came up in my department then I would be considered for it. They would put me through for some training and I would work with the senior staff to develop my skills. 

I went home, I phoned CJ and told him the short version, that I hadn't got the job and they hadn't even interviewed me for it. Then I went home and climbed into bed with my piece of paper they'd given me with my options, I curled up under the duvet and I have to admit I burst I to tears. Just because I felt stupid for getting my hopes up and thinking I could do it, when obviously they think I can't. They obviously think of me as a measly part time worker who comes in gets the job done and goes home. A minion. I'm just a number to them. They don't deal with me day to day and don't know what I am capable of.

I went into work today and discussed it with my line manager, I told her what was said and she said she would work with me to train me up and develop my knowledge and skills so that when and if a position does come up in our department I'll be ready for it.

I gave it some thought and decided on the staying put option. I like my department and I like the people.. I told the manager my decision and let her know that I'm serious about wanting to be considered for the position when one becomes available., I've also discussed it with CJ and decided that if the position passes me by again, I will be looking else where for a job.

Anyway I'm supping my sleepy time tea and chilling out before bed.
Looking forward to seeing my babies in the morning.
At least I know there is one job I am good at.
Being a mummy.
Lots of love VJ and Family 
xx




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