Why would your manager and director be upset that you applied and got another position in a different department? Wouldn’t they be congratulating you or at least supportive of your success of moving up? I had the courtesy of letting them know I was applying for another position beforehand. I didn’t just not say anything. I don’t understand why I’m being spited for wanting to better my life. As a single woman household it’s essential for my survival and our department is an entry level position. However, I got told when hired they give performance reviews and raises and we have different levels in our department, but we have yet to receive one and get told it’s not in the budget while seeing other departments get raises and opportunities to take classes. Ifs very political here. I’m glad I’m leaving this department. It’s all women and if you don’t know someone here then you’re not liked. What happened to women supporting women? I’ve never had so much hate at any job other than this one.

5 Comments

1. AnonymousApril 27,2026 at 5:28PM UTC

   We women would all be better off if we helped and supported each other, but sometimes women who get in a position of power choose to abuse that power. I don't know why they do it; perhaps making others feel worse makes them feel better, but I wish we would all unite! We make up half the world (or even slightly more than half), but we don't earn even close to half the money. even when you account for the fact that there are far more stay-at-home Moms than stay-at-home Dads. I can't help but think that if a woman had the top position in every country, there would be fewer wars and kids would be fed, but only if we elect the right women.

2. AnonymousApril 27,2026 at 8:07PM UTC

   I agree fully!

3. AnonymousApril 28,2026 at 12:47PM UTC

   Ideally they'd be supportive, but it still leaves your manager with a spot to fill, and unfortunately, they may be more concerned about the impact on them then caring of you.

4. AnonymousApril 28,2026 at 1:02PM UTC

   Yes, this is disheartening. But be encouraged. The reason why you're not being congratulated or applauded by your former team members is because you're daring to do something that the others in your department wish they had the courage to do. Very often having a short-sighted perspective of skills and abilities will stagnate a career faster than anything. But you've chosen to rise above it and reach for more. Don't take it personally and move on with grace.

5. CeceliaApril 30,2026 at 3:07PM UTC

   I'm so sorry you're experiencing this. Retaliation for seeking career growth is never okay, and the "women supporting women" hypocrisy you're describing is painfully real in some workplaces.

   A few thoughts from someone who's been through workplace toxicity:

   Document everything - those conversations about your internal application, any negative treatment since applying, the "not in budget" excuses while others get raises. Even if you're leaving, having documentation protects you if they try to retaliate further or sabotage your transfer.

   You did nothing wrong - applying for advancement is YOUR right. Their anger about it says everything about them and nothing about you.

   Trust your instincts - you recognized the toxicity and took action to get out. That's smart, not disloyal.

   The clique dynamic - workplaces that operate on favoritism rather than merit are ticking time bombs. You're getting out before it gets worse.

   I'm glad you're leaving that department. You deserve a workplace that values your contributions and supports your growth. Their spite is their problem, not yours.

   Wishing you all the best in your new position. ?