How do I address this with higher-ups? Promotion job filled that wasn't advertised, despite tenure and experience?

[Anonymous]

I just found out that a major role at my job has been filled. It was posted internally a year ago, and I applied for it. I had tenure at the place and good prior experience. The job was put on hold because of expansion projects.

I asked HR about it every few months, often enough for them to know I was interested but not enough to be a pest. Well, I found out this morning that the job has been filled by an external candidate and I'm extremely pissed off about it. HR told me that I'd probably have to re-apply, which is fine. But they never posted the job again and I never even got an interview. I want to talk to our VP about it, since I have a good relationship with him and he knows my motivations and that I like the company. How do I ask him about it without sounding threatening or like I'm going to walk off right away?

Updates

3 mo

I've also had good performance reviews in my current role and got the maximum raise I could, so obviously I'm not bad at my job.

[lightbulb27]

Best solution I've seen historically is to leave and get a better job. Then you become an external candidate and can apply and come back at an even higher salary.

companies lot of times do't like to promote within... maybe because it creates a hole which they have to fill again... that's a daisy chain of cost. cheaper to go outside.

[RedInnocent69]

Don’t quit, but start looking and leave for somewhere you’ll be more appreciated. Sometimes moving is the only way to get ahead if you’re not comfortable where you are

[RedInnocent69]

Thanks for the MHO!

[Agape93]

Could be based on pay. You are good at your job and have maxed out your raises in your current position. So assuming you'd be making more at that position, they could have decided to hire externally at a lower rate, and blocked internal mobility for that or similar roles.

[AI Opinion]

Approach the VP with a calm and professional demeanor. Schedule a meeting, emphasizing your dedication and respect for the company. Begin the conversation by expressing your commitment to the organization and your appreciation for the opportunities it has provided. Clearly outline your understanding of the situation and mention your consistent interest in the role. Ask for insights into the decision-making process and how you can better position yourself for future opportunities. Use the conversation as a chance to demonstrate your willingness to grow further in the company. Use this interaction to seek constructive feedback and discuss potential paths for advancement.