Dear Dr. June:
There are some new job opportunities that are coming to where I work. Things are changing because of COVID-19. I’m interested in the changes because I believe change is good, but I’m no spring chicken. Some of these new jobs might require some training or an online certificate program. I’ve been at this place over 10 years and know my job really well. I’ve had two promotions, so I’ve done well here. It would be great to get another promotion with the higher pay before I retire, but I don’t want to embarrass myself if things turn sour during the training. The last time I did anything like this was four years ago, and it was in person. That’s easier for me. Now, the online training for larger promotions is coming down the pipe before the end of the year. Should I give it a try, or try for a lesser promotion for the next seven years before I retire? I know you believe in going for it, but isn’t playing it safe good sometimes? — Seven-year scratch in North Carolina
Dear SYS:
The way I see it, seven years is not a really long time, but it’s not a short time either. In other words, seven years could be considered just a few years, but if you are scratching for something different, it’s going to feel much longer than seven years.
On the other hand, if you’re comfortable or willing to take the smaller promotion to give yourself fewer responsibilities, then maybe the time won’t seem long at all. I think either way you slice it, the time is going to seem long if you choose to wait it out.
Going through the training and trying for the larger promotion will give you something to do rather than just watching the calendar. Additionally, learning something new and trying something different is good for the adult brain, especially as we mature in age. For one thing, it strengthens your memory. I understand that online training is not optimal, but it may not only help you get the increase you want, it can help you mentally as well.
As you mentioned, I’m a go-for-the-gusto person. Playing it safe is good at times. I don’t think this time is one of those times. As mentioned, there are multiple positives for taking the chance. So, take the training. You may be surprised at how well you do. Plus, you’ve been with this employer a while and may already know more than you realize. Bottom line is that you go for the bigger promotion, but even if you don’t get it (and I think you will get it), you can still get the lesser promotion. Win-win.
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