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What Questions to Ask Before You Accept a Job Promotion

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When considering a job promotion offer, asking yourself the question "Would I have applied for this position on my own?" is a good way to measure your interest in the job. If the answer is "No," according to consultant Ann Latham writing for the website Forbes, the promotion is probably not a good fit for you. If you find that your interest level is high, follow up by arming yourself with important questions you should ask before accepting the offer.

Am I Qualified and Suitable?

Ask yourself if your current qualifications and experience meet those that are expected in the position. If the job requires additional training, consider if you are interested in investing the time and energy. Also, think about how well suited you are for the new job. For example, if the promotion is a move to a supervisory position, ask yourself if you would be comfortable directing others. For a promotion which requires you to learn new skills or take on roles you are unfamiliar with, ask if ongoing support and coaching will be available to you.

What Are My Long-Term Goals?

A promotion and its perks -- more money, a bigger office -- can prove attractive. However, considering how accepting the promotion can affect your long-term career potential is a smart move. For example, if the promotion offers little room for advancement, and you have lofty career goals, it might not be the right move for you. Or if the promotion requires you to relocate to a geographic area that would prevent you from being where you want to be, think carefully before you accept. Once you accept a promotion, it may be a while before you can work your way into another position.

Was the Last Person in the Job Succeesful?

If the promotion is into an established position, consider the success of the person who formerly held the job. For example, if that person was promoted because of a job well done, the position could be a stepping stone to something better. However, if the person left the company or was fired, you may want to investigate further. Analyze the future of the position. For instance, if there are rumors that the department may restructure or disappear, be wary. You don't want a position that may become extinct. Ask the person who previously held the position about her workload. If she says it was manageable, that's positive. However, if she describes the work as never-ending, take it as warning sign. In addition, ask about the other workers in the department -- especially if the promotion is to a supervisory position. It helps in the decision-making process to know what type of workers you would inherit.

What Are the Benefits?

While benefits, such as a higher salary, shouldn't be the sole motivating factors when considering a job promotion offer, they are important -- especially when the job might prove challenging. Those little extras can make the additional responsibilities and stress of a promotion worth it. Alison Green, management and hiring consultant, and author of the popular blog "Ask a Manager," advises that you ask the person offering you the promotion what the terms of the position are -- including salary -- before you give an answer. Then, if you agree to the terms, you can feel confident in accepting the promotion.

References
Writer

Based in Texas, Cynthia Measom has been writing various parenting, business and finance and education articles since 2011. Her articles have appeared on websites such as The Bump and Motley Fool. Measom received a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Texas at Austin.

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