Demotion with same salary and less responsibility

Question

4 weeks before the self quarantine order my company went through a reorganization and laid off associates.  I was demoted due to the reorganization and half my responsibilities were taken away.  This was very disheartening as my performance appraisals have always been the highest you can be rated.  I believe I was kept on due to being a subject matter expert in my focused area.  I am looking at seeking new opportunities but am unsure how I should reflect this on my resume and address during interviews.  Looking for advice.

Deb Strickland · Answer

I don't see this 'demotion' as anything to identify in your resume. Just document the work you've done as you would normally. The demotion was purely a business decision in lieu of being laid and doesn't reflect your skills. They apparently decided to not lay off (for now) because of those skills.  resume title and your LI title don't need to change. I've never used my actual work title since they've always been so vague. I use a functional title.

If you get an offer and they check your employment, they only ask if you're still employed or your job title. They don't ask what you actually did (HR doesn't know that).

Laura McCann · Answer

Reorganizations occur and things like this are not out of the norm.  I agree with the poster above who said to be up front about it.   It could be a great part of your story as you look for a new role- your job scope decreased due to reorg which led you to look for greater responsibility.

MoneyCareerMotherhood · Answer

It's all in the story of how you explain it! I agree to be up front, and be prepared to give enough details about what the reorganization did - (example - 'The company reduced headcount by this amount & x# of management roles were eliminated through a reorganization. While my role changed, due to my expertise in (whatever area you are the subject matter expert) I was retained as a key employee focusing on ...'

Also, if you have capacity/time, consider developing yourself outside of your current role - Maybe you want to take courses in a certain area to continue developing your leadership skills, or have a side gig that practices other skills, etc. - This can show a prospective employer more about your ambition and where you want to go, rather than the job function you do today.

Judy Hutchinson · Answer

Hi.  The same thing happened to me--finishing a five year contract with my organization abroad, they were contractually obliged to give me a position back here that would be lateral.  In the end, the money is the same, but the job is less relevant and the title is a demotion.  I do agree with one comment--I am immensely grateful for the job and in particular the benefits, as I became ill immediately upon returning.  They're generous with me, and much like you, it wasn't a slight on performance.  However, it is disappointing, when you know you can contribute more.  I think that's the thing--you know you have more talents and abilities and your skills are being under-utilized.  That makes for a less than satisfactory working situation.  Most of us are not just working for the money!  It's also about enjoying the job and making a relevant contribution each day.
I would repeat what was said--being up front about the re-org.  Perhaps in a cover letter, but I wouldn't do it in such a way that it slights your current company, but rather, acknowledges their plight, shows gratitude for the position, but then demonstrates how you have so much more to give in a role.  Best of luck.

Ariel Ramirez-Stich · Answer

There is no need to mention this on your resume, list your initial position title with the associated dates then below it list your changed title with the associated dates.  If asked why this changed, say there was an acquisition, thats it. You did all the higher level tasks for years- and take this opportunity to optimize your time! Do the easier job, in less hours and learn some new skills if you can. 
Sorry this happened to you, the timing is unfortunate.

Krista Coutts · Answer

I have several friends in sales positions where their base salary was reduced, as well as their overall quota.  I have mixed feelings about this as it is great to still have a job, BUT  sales people are in a rough place right now with only certain industries spending to market.

Miranda Wilcox · Answer

I agree with Deb. It sounds like this is something that's top of mind for you but won't be for interviewers.

Karen Kyer · Answer

Be up front. This pandemic has changed all of the rules. I believe there will be more forgiveness and understanding.

SARAH HALL · Answer

it doesn't sound like this was a personal decision so I wouldn't take it as one. I would discuss it with your supervisors but if you're seeking other employment present it exactly as you have here - you were a valued employee with consistently high reviews but the company's financial situation forced a change in your title and responsibilities. Did the company shift your responsibilities to a supervisor or another department? Did some responsibilities get eliminated with some of the positions the company shed? if you don't know these are things you can clarify in speaking with your supervisor.

Holly Zach · Answer

Thank you all for the input.  I was worried that my resume would be overlooked because of the title change and I wouldn't even get to the interview change.  Everyone had such great feedback and really helped me think of alternative ways to represent what I can do versus what the title is. This site has been amazing as a resource for articles and posts.

Demotion with same salary and less responsibility

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