Good afternoon, would appreciate some thoughts from others.

Anonymous

March 21,2022 at 8:47PM UTC

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Good afternoon, would appreciate some thoughts from others.

I have been with the same company for 16 years this month, always in the same department/group but with different levels of responsibility and focus.

I have applied for exactly 4 other roles in this time period, none of which I was selected for, but as I work in HR I have visibility to all open positions.

The last one, was a job I have been grooming myself for over the last few years, I have excellent relationships with the team and volunteer already to assist them with projects and issues they face in the on-boarding process.

I was asked to apply, and I know that is no guarantee for an offer. I was extremely prepared and was told I "blew away the interview team", as I know more of them very well it was easy to feel confident during the interview process.

I was not offered the job, because someone else internally was selected with a slightly different background and can bring a helpful piece of insight to the new role.

Fine, I get it. What bothers me, is that I am 15 years older than this person and personally trained them. I am admittedly 5 years away from a planned retirement which is earlier than most people would plan.

I have been stereotyped and I am not okay with it. I am ready to throw in the towel but I have a 5-year plan and that would completely change my retirement ability if I suddenly go somewhere else for less money. I know it would be very challenging to match what I earn, but I am so unfulfilled and going through the motions for something I am quickly losing passion for.

Thoughts and suggestions welcome.

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AnonymousMarch 21,2022 at 9:56PM UTC
Congrats on 16 years, having insight to acknowledge why the other person was chosen, to be a team player, to have a 5-year plan, to know you do not want to destroy that plan without seeking the thoughts of others. 1. How important is it to you retiring in 5 years? 2. How important is it that you switch positions (whether staying or finding a new job)? 3. Remember to congratulate yourself on training an employee to being able to reach their goals. 4. Are there other things that you could do/join to find some fulfillment? Committees, groups, both inside and outside the job. Volunteering for PIHRA or another HR group may give you some networking leads that could turn into job leads or something extra to bring to another job at your current company.
Meloney StoweMarch 21,2022 at 10:40PM UTC
does the hiring party know you are close to retiring? My mom always told me don't give away all of your trade secrets, otherwise you train yourself right out of a job. I hope things work out for you.
AnonymousMarch 22,2022 at 2:35PM UTC
How do you know you would make less money jumping ship? Unfortunately, that’s what people are doing these days. Staying dormant in one company can hinder people these days. Also, I’m in my mid 40’s and have seen my fair share of younger people getting jobs they are less qualified for. Staying could also give you security. There’s a lot of ageism out there!
Robyn McCabria KelsoMarch 24,2022 at 2:23PM UTC
A tough blow to be sure. I'd probably peek around a bit and see what else is out there but if it doesn't match what I need, I'd probably stay put.