How to respond to being passed over for job?

Question

I have worked for an organization more than twenty years.
I would like to know how to respond in writing to not getting a promotion
for which I believe I was qualified.
Please don't answer if you want to insult me?
Not all employers are fair and if that is your position don't bother to answer.
The job I hold is significant and I appreciate it.
My goal is not to critic my employer. If you don't have the ability to answer in a sensitive v and helpful manner don't answer.
This is not a "sour grapes"

Answer 1

i too have been passed over for a promotion....it really killed me....if you are an attractive woman and your boss is awoman forget it.

Answer 2

Employers do discriminate against an older worker (over 40) by not promoting them. Before you write this response take time to look at www.eeoc.gov to see if you have been discriminated against. You should also check with a local employment attorney who can review what happened to you and let you know what your legal options are.

Do not rush into writing the response, wait until you can write this without emotion. This response must present your argument in a cold, unemotional manner, citing facts, not opinions, not feelings. Remember this document will be put into your personnel file, make sure it is not bitter, angry, full of revenge, or in any manner something that can be used against you.

You probably already know that this employer does not give a da** about how you feel about being passed over for the job. In my experience employers do not actually work to resolve issues with employees UNTIL they get the hint that their mistake may cost them money. That is where the options from a local attorney could help you.

If I were writing this document for you I would begin: 1. Your experience with the company, positive reviews, awards, time spent on the job, education/seminars that pertain to the job. End this section with quotes from your last review.
2. An analysis of the job you did not get. The duties that the employer posted about this job, other duties that you know will come with this position. Fit your experience, etc, into this job. The financial benefits to the employer of putting you into that position . How you would have helped the company.
3. You disappointment (not 'I feel', but 'I am') do not use the word 'hurt'. Seek a meeting with the head of HR. your VP, manager, etc to chart out what they believe you should do to obtain this position next time it opens up. Offer to attend seminars, school, put them on the spot.

You may want to mention discrimination in your write up, not a threat. Example: I know that this company would not promote a hardworking employee due to their age, sex, race
so there must be something I can do to qualify for the next opening in this area.

Good luck.

Answer 3

Since you were passed over for the position they must have found another candidate with credentials/experience/skills that the company decided was a better fit for the job.

In your current situation I would write a non-threatening letter asking for the list of skills where you might improve in order to increase your chance of successfully seeking a promotion the next time there is an opening.
Most employers are willing to help their employees succeed and rise in the company. Perhaps your immediate supervisor may not be quite so thrilled with that thought, but even they may appreciate your efforts to learn more so that you can become a better/more effective/more efficient worker.

Answer 4

Personally, I would initiate a conversation with the hiring manager or your current manager and not respond in writing. However, if you feel compelled to write a letter, you should focus on your qualifications, contributions to the company, and desire to move forward in your career. Do not expect them to reconsider the decision that has already been made, but you should take this as a learning opportunity and use the feedback that you are requesting to better prepare yourself for the next opportunity.

Be careful - writing and delivering this letter will make someone feel defensive and may guarantee that you are not considered for a future promotion.

Answer 5

Make it short and simple in the format of a thank you note. Thank the decision maker for considering you and tell him/her you hope to be considered for the next position for which you apply.

Take your time, but quiety look for another job, one with promotion potential. Many, if not most, people get promotions by moving to other companies. Who knows? Once you get a couple of years of experience working at a higher level in another company, you could come back to this one with another promotion. Oftentimes, homegrown is not as respected as hiring from the outside.

Answer 6

I remember being fired by my own brothering law because the employees made stories up because they thought I was spying on them.
ON the way home I was offered a job which was as much pay and easier.
You response should be something better is going to happen to me... All things work together for good. Rom.8 :28

Answer 7

this is not an insult it is realty, you were passed over for a specific reason, it can be any reason. You could ask why but you probably could ask but I wouldn't expect an honest answer