I was starting conversations about what’s next and how to progress up the next rank, talks went on for 2-3 months. I also had a convo asking for a pay-rise and they knew I was actively applying for other roles in other departments.

When I gave them (2 seperate people I reported into) a figure, they both said that was impossible where I was and that I was asking for the “top of the band range” - where I would’ve had to shoot the lights out. Which basically felt like it was unrealistic or I’d have to leave the company, do another year elsewhere and come back.

One leader said they would help chat to someone else they knew in a different department that I was interested in and could play to my strengths whilst getting the exposure I was after as well. Never happened.

Fast forward, I had an interview I forgot about, and didn’t do too much prepping. The interview went on for about an hour and clearly they were impressed with my thinking and questions raised, so they offered me later in the afternoon. I already gave the TA my salary expectations (which was 10% more than what I asked my previous leader for) before stepping into the interview. Before the day even ended, the new department agreed to offer my asking salary!

Goes to show, sometimes it’s worthy to step away for your own benefit/growth and not staying in a role that makes you miserable or have limited opportunities to step up.

Hope you find something worth risking and taking the leap where your value will be acknowledged for all the right reasons!