How do I know if I should step up in my career?

Anonymous

September 10,2023 at 7:00PM UTC

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How do I know if I should step up in my career?

I was recently made redundent and I am actively looking for a new job now. The problem is that I am getting often rejected for the roles I am applying for and the most often comment is that I am overqualified. Often when I speak with interviewers I am being asked why do I apply for this role as they are often considered as a step back in my career. My former colleagues (and former bosses) and people that know me and my work well also tell me that they think I should be looking at senior management roles ( VP or C-level) as I have been working at that level for the past 3 years, but my formal title was not a VP or C-level title. My former bosses are willing to give me recommendations. One of the problems, however, is that I lack the confidence to step up. I am absolutely sure I can do the work at that level but I am not good at talking about it. Also, how do I find such a role when these roles are most often not announced by the companies ( at least in my country they are not)? Frankly, I wonder if I am ready to step up will I be still wondering how to get an interview for such role!? Isn't that a sign that I am not ready?

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AnonymousSeptember 10,2023 at 7:28PM UTC
Employers want to hire employees with self confidence and who are willing to do the work at the level they are trained in.
I have many years experience and moved up the ladder with my on the job experience rather than with a higher degree. I'm Associate Degree prepared, though most of my colleagues hold MBA or MS degrees. Albeit my age allowed me these years of experience, and I've continued education in various conferences and seminars over the years.
Never stop learning. Get yourself into a class to become more confident in yourself and increase your skill set through education.
Best of luck to you.
AnonymousSeptember 10,2023 at 11:06PM UTC
It may be a sign of some confidence issues that could benefit from therapy.
AnonymousSeptember 11,2023 at 12:58AM UTC
The good thing is you know what skills you have to work with. Confidence comes in with practice one thing I've learned from my experience is that I tend to find the confidence to lead in projects I genuinely care about. So instead of looking for the role identify companies that you would love to contribute to on that level. Identify leaders on LinkedIn give them a follow... not a connection just yet especially with leaders in that high level connections can be tough. Follow their post, engage in them and make yourself visible to them. You can also use LinkedIn to engage with c-suite/VP level learnings & resources. So when a role does come along your confidence will come from a place that is true to you because you took the time build interest in a specific organization.
Grisel Scarantino, Career and Work-Life Fulfillment CoachSeptember 11,2023 at 11:39AM UTC
Nope, it isn’t a sign that you’re not ready. It’s a sign that you don’t yet have a full grasp on the incredible value you bring to the professional table. I work with individuals who are working on creating the next chapter of their professional story, which usually involves taking their career to the next level with confidence. Check out my profile here on FGB. I’d be happy to offer you a complimentary call if you’d like to chat.
Maegan, Nike Sales Rep & Career CoachSeptember 11,2023 at 7:12PM UTC
Hi anonymous!
I help professionals identify, communicate, and feel confident in the value of their skillsets and their work. I can help you get good at talking about what you do (and really believing it) so you communicate your value effectively.
Not feeling "ready" is a typical response from your brain to keep you comfortable. Stepping up into a new level requires a new way of thinking, and willingness to be uncomfortable sometimes.
Here's my link to schedule a call with me and I can share how I can help you ! https://maeganmillercoaching.as.me/consultcall
AnonymousSeptember 12,2023 at 6:21PM UTC
Find the companies that interest you and then look at who is funding them if private. Reach out there and let them know your interest in becoming a part of their leadership team. Write a well defined cover note telling them why you have interest and then also showcasing your specific skills that benefit the company. Do targeted reachouts and reference those C level referrals that would endorse your skills for those roles. Confidence doesn't truly need to be a factor unless you just don't know how to promote what you know. If that is the case find a coach to work through that who can help you turn tactical speak into strategic speak. The difference being something that affects one dept vs the whole org. You got this!
AnonymousSeptember 14,2023 at 1:30PM UTC
If you have a senior management title (director or "senior/lead," you should be qualified and looking for senior management, VP, or C-level jobs.