The Mock Turtle

Est, it’s great that you are enjoying the challenge of your new role. What you say about a (maybe) Director position sounds intriguing. Even if you think you’re not ready, would you consider applying anyway? If not you, another mediocre white man may end up there…

As for me, there’s no obligation to follow up on internal apps but it’s not a bad idea to do so. I am at a disadvantage in my attitude to networking here, where I assume an internal app means people know you have applied and who you are. It squicks me to do the informal outreach to a hiring manager when there is an application process. I don’t really see how (objectively) that makes a difference except when selections aren’t objective (whic never happens)

I can see how that would be tricky (and awkward )

I also, reading back, realise I wasn’t super clear. My Director has a new job, so it’s his position that is vacant rather than it being a new position.

So after 7 interviews and a quick call to ask 'are you still interested/looking for other work?' I received today a generic 'thanks but no thanks' email.

I'll reply with the standard niceties when I can be bothered.

Duo, that is staggeringly appalling of them (assuming I’ve read it right that it was 7 interviews at the same place). I’m sorry, that’s really shit of them to string you along like that.

That is shocking!

Seven interviews?! You are a saint for playing along with that. I’m sorry you didn’t get it.

Wow! I think you dodged a bullet if that's the way they treat people, but what a waste of your time.

That's just outrageous!

That's so rude and what a waste of your time. They definitely don't deserve you.

That’s an insane amount of time to commit and then not even receive a phone call. Arseholes.

Fucking hell, duo.

Nowhere near the same scale but I got rejected from a job last year because my PhD wasn't done. Same job came up again (they didn't appoint anyone) and I applied in April after my supervisor was contacted saying they really wanted me. They kept telling him this. I ticked the box for guaranteed interview just to maximise.ky chances anyway. He was told yesterday that HR would contact me soon. They did. I got a generic automated fuck off today

I'm more bemused than angry tbh but yes it's an appalling way to treat folk.

They're fools Smun, utter fools.

I’ve decided to apply for the Director role. Prompted by some messages from someone I used to work with in my team. Permanent ones almost never come up, and if anything it’s good practice writing an application for a Senior Officer role which I’ve never done. It closes next Thursday so I’ll work on it over the weekend. I don’t expect to even get an interview but even just feedback on my application will be worthwhile.

Good luck, I think it's totally worth applying for the simple fact that it raises your profile.

Yay! That’s exciting, Est! I’m sure you’ll do well (I won’t wish you good luck, because it’s not about luck!)

I took a promotion 2 years ago and had to move to a new office. Next week I’m goi g back to my old office at my higher position. I’m nervous, but excited! I loved my old office. I hope I can do a good job when I get there.

I didn’t apply for the Director role in the end. Which with hindsight was the right move. However my current role keeps expanding (I’ve doubled my direct reports) and the workload is increasing too. I’m slightly jaded. So have impulse applied for a role in another department which is at level but has no line management responsibilities (and looks very interesting) Closing date is this Friday so hopefully I hear something in the coming weeks.

Good luck! I would love not to have to line manager anyone so that sounds much better.

Oooo, good luck!

I’m hoping to offload my direct reports pretty soon. They talk too much.

Good luck!

It’s all the admin and soft management stuff that does my nut in.

It takes up so much bloody time! Timesheets, leave requests, performance management.