3 ways to deal with a big career setback
It’s critical to take an honest look at yourself, your work
Earlier in my career, I had a boss who promised me a big promotion. He assured me that he could make it happen and that, while processing would take a few weeks, the job was mine.
That turned out not to be true for a variety of reasons. A few weeks later, not only was I not promoted, he no longer was with the company.
It was a bitter blow that left me upset, doubting my future with the company I then worked at and not sure what to do next. My immediate response was less than helpful. I still performed well at work but was generally sullen and withdrawn.
I had no interest in proving myself again to a new boss who seemed a whole lot less enamored with me than my previous one was. It was a rough time, but one that, in retrospect, I could have handled better.
Here’s a look at what you should do after a career setback.
1. Don’t get hung up on it
It’s reasonable to be upset. In my case, I had lost a significant raise, better benefits and a major jump in prestige. Being angry or sad made sense, but letting it take me out of the fight did not. The correct response would have been to vent my an- ger in private and get back to it at work.
2. Do an honest evaluation
Sometimes not getting a promotion or being passed over in some other way hurts, but it’s not a statement on your future with the company. In my case, my association with the previous boss marked me to some of the people who had decided on his removal. Once I came out of my funk, I was able to honestly say that my chances of being considered for a promotion where I worked were non-existent.
3. Execute a plan
In my case, my plan involved aggressively trying to leave the team I was on, whether it was for another job at that very large company or to go elsewhere. For many people, a career setback can be a lesson — an opportunity to make some changes in order to not have the same disappointment happen again. If appropriate, talk to your boss about why you were passed over. Make a plan to improve and to be ready for the next opportunity.