Why saying ‘no’ to a promotion can be a strategic move

Over the course of their careers, many employees strive for the rewards and recognition that a promotion brings. While often considered a milestone, there are times when turning down a promotion can be a deliberate decision, both professionally and personally. 

Swiss recruitment firm Robert Walters offers insights into why and how to turn down a promotion can be a strategic career move.

Reasons to decline 

Work-life balance: 43% of professionals who plan to change jobs in 2025 will do so with an eye on a better work-life balance, according to Robert Walters' recent salary survey. A healthy work-life balance is therefore essential for your personal well-being. Being promoted to a new role can bring more responsibilities and workload, which can impact this balance. 

Expertise versus leadership: not everyone thrives equally well in a leadership role. Refusing a promotion may come from recognising your strengths and realising that they are better expressed in a specialist role than in managing a team. 

Personal situation: changes in personal circumstances such as health, family commitments or other external factors can be an understandable reason for turning down a senior position. 

Future career goals: sometimes an offered promotion does not fit the intended direction you have in mind for your career. Refusing then can be a strategic choice to stick to your long-term vision. 

Satisfied in current role: when you are already fully satisfied with your current position, a promotion could bring more stress and responsibilities you are not looking for. 

Right approach 

Refusing a promotion can be seen as a lack of ambition and affect how others see your career development. Nevertheless, this can be an opportunity to bring a positive message: it shows that you are self-aware and have a clear vision of your career path. It is therefore crucial to convey rejection in a respectful and thoughtful way. Robert Walters shares some tips: 

Honest communication: Explain your reasons clearly to your manager. Be honest about your ambitions, strengths and why you think the offered promotion does not fit your growth trajectory. Take enough time for this conversation so that nothing is left unsaid. 

Alternative solutions: If possible, suggest alternative ways you can add value to the organisation without accepting the position offered. 

Future-oriented attitude: Show that you are willing to continue to grow and contribute to the company, even if not in the form of the offered promotion. Do you feel you lack certain skills, such as people management? Reach out to your employer about opportunities for additional support and training to grow in these. Indeed, the same salary study by Robert Walters revealed that 34% of employers are open to offering additional training to their employees by 2025. 

It is important to remember that refusing a promotion is a personal choice and there is no standard list of ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ reasons. Remember that true growth and fulfilment come from making choices that are in line with your own values, goals and talents.

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