How should I celebrate a promotion?

Question

I recently received a big promotion, and joined the ranks of 'middle management". The problem is, everyone is telling me to go celebrate, but I can't figure out how. So far, suggestions from friends and coworkers include - a new car (german, supposedly), a plasma tv, new suites, a fancy watch, golf clubs, etc. I am not sure if I actually NEED any of these; I am a low maintanence nerdy guy - i like my honda, my old tv, my cheap clubs that I use to play at cheap golf courses, my timex watch that never fails me. How important is it to "look" the part? Is it enough that I am obvioulsy doing a good job, or should I splurge so that I can fit the stereotype? Is there a downside to not playing along?

Answer 1

You were hired for who you are and the potential you have displayed.

"Things" don't make us who we are, the pricetag doesn't make something intrinsicly valuable.

Your gut instinct is to take this promotion graciously and focus on your job. Don't doubt yourself or read more into "good intentions".

As for everyone else's suggestions, they are living vicariously through your successes. Tone that down alittle and get the conversations moving on to something more relevant.

Do not go into debt because of this promotion. Invest the money, pay off bills, etc as you never know what's waiting around the corner. In line with your promotion, seek out additional training like self-help managment books, educational opprtunities like a master's degree and training courses offered within the company.

Good luck and congrats on your promotion...

Answer 2

There's an old adage in business that states "dress for where you want to be, not where you are."

Now, normally, I'd recommend doing what makes you most comfortable but the harsh fact is the business world is full of insecure, dim people who take their cues about the worth of an employee from outward appearance, not their character.

If other people perceive you as someone on the move, you will continue to move up. And the key to this is "looking the part." Ask yourself if you'd want to work with a money manager who wore a cheap suit with holes in it. No, you want to work with someone who looks prosperous, hoping some of that properity will rub off on you. Would you go to a doctor who seemed unsure of his diagnosis? No, you want someone who knows what he or she is doing.

The bottom line is, the person you are at work is not you. It's a role like any other and your only objective is to keep that job to finance your real life. Of course if that line of work is making you miserable, you should consider doing whatever it is you love and let happiness guide you rather than money.

Answer 3

Don't fall for the hype of do as the joneses do. Be yourself and get what you need the most and not try to impress anyone by "splurging" unnecessarily. The only thing that will get you is more bills and maybe even some uninvited envy.....

Answer 4

Do whatever YOU want to do. You don't have to fit in with any stereotype. Enjoy your promotion, SAVE those extra bucks, and have a great retirement later!

P.S. Get advice from your trusted friends, not coworkers, who may be kissing a** and "looking the part" as you said.

Answer 5

I don't think you need to look the part, as long as you are presentable. They'll think you're serious about your job. But if you don't play their games, like golfing and going out drinking, you might miss out on important networking.