How do I prove to be more qualified for a promotion than my co-worker?

Question

My co-worker or I are being considered for a promotion. He is a very likeable guy but he is unorganized. His lack of organizational skills already are a detrement to our office. He does a good job, but he is ineffecient which causes a lot of overtime. I feel that he has a lot to work on before he should be considered.He has been there 6 months longer than me. While interviewing I would like to somehow show that I do not lack in these areas without putting him down. How can I prove myself in the interview. If he is promoted his position can easily be filled from within the office. Whereas there is no one to replace me because I work in a specialty department, and there is no one that has any experience in my area. I also have 14 years experience in the same field as my co-worker. I would appreciate if people with upper management experience would reply.

Answer 1

Get a few co-workers to write a letter of recommendation to your boss for you. There is nothing cut-throat about this method, and they know better what they have to deal with as far as your skills and the other guy's skills go.

Answer 2

Go to the HR Department to get a copy of the new job description. Review the description to see what skills and experience you have that meet the requirements. Think about how you can learn the things you do not know how to do. Think about what you do now and how that experience will enhance you ability to do the new job. Be prepared to talk about these things. Write them down if necessary.

During the interview, focus on your skills, experience, and knowledge. Let them know that you checked the job description because you are excited about the opportunity. Do not under any circumstances mention the other person or denigrate anything about your current position.

Sell yourself. Don't be like our politicians who use these negative tactics to get elected. We all hate it.

Answer 3

You could stress your organization skills in the interview - let them figure out that your coworker is lacking in that area. And give specific examples, don't just say "I'm very organized".