The Promotion Question
every yes is a no to something
Someone wants you for the bigger role. It is flattering. It may be what you worked for. And part of you is not sure. That hesitation deserves a real look before you answer.
"Most accomplished people
don't need more information.
They need permission."
Lauren Fine, MD · ICF-Track Coach · TEDx Speaker
The real question
New title, new work, new hours, new people. Some of it you will love. Some of it you may be trading away. We look at what the role will actually ask of you, and what you will have to give up to say yes.
How we work through it
We work through the same four questions I use for any decision, applied to this offer.
01
Do you want the role, or the recognition? Both are real. Only one will get you through a hard Tuesday in the new job.
02
What will this yes replace? Time with family, the work you love most, your evenings. We put it on paper.
03
Does the role fit who you are becoming? Some people grow into leadership. Some realize they would rather lead in other ways.
04
Yes, no, or yes with conditions. We work out how to say it, including what to ask for if you say yes.
Is this for you
A note
Turning down a promotion can be the right call, and saying yes with conditions is often possible. We look at all three before you answer.
Book a Free Coaching Session, No Sales PitchWant to try it on your own first? Download the free Pivot Decision Framework.
Common questions
Should I take a promotion if I am not sure I want it?
Not without a closer look. Uncertainty often means part of the role fits and part does not. We figure out which parts, and whether you can shape the role before you say yes.
Is it bad for my career to turn down a promotion?
Not necessarily. How you say no matters, and so does what you say yes to instead. We work out an answer you can stand behind.
Can I negotiate before I accept?
Often, yes. Scope, support, hours and timing can sometimes be discussed before you commit. We work out what to ask for.
How long should I take to decide?
Long enough to answer well. It is reasonable to ask for a few days. We use that time to look at the real cost of the yes.
What if I take it and it is wrong for me?
Most choices are more reversible than they feel. We look for ways to test the role and set a point to check in with yourself.
Is the first session really free?
Yes. The first session is free and there is no sales pitch. Bring the offer. We will see whether coaching makes sense.
Ready to start
No pressure. Just a conversation.
The first session is free and there's no obligation. Tell me where you are. I'll tell you honestly if coaching makes sense and if we're a good fit.
Speaking and workshop inquiries welcome. Contact for rates.
Related reading
Physician weighing your options? Read the guide to non-clinical careers for physicians, including the paths that do not require leaving clinical work.