APPRENTICE star and West Ham United vice-chair Karren Brady answers your careers questions.
Here, Karren gives her expert advice to a reader who was shocked to find a friend and colleague had applied for the same role as her.
Q) In my last appraisal, my manager and I spoke about me working towards a promotion, and I really feel like I’ve taken on responsibilities and increased my skills over the last six months because of this.
A promotion opportunity has recently come up – I was really excited to apply for it, so confided this to a colleague who I’m also good friends with out of work.
However, in our recent one-to-one, my manager mentioned this colleague has applied for the new position, too.
My friend hasn’t said anything to me, and I’m really hurt, especially as she knows how much I want it.
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My interview is coming up, but my head is all over the place.
How should I handle this?
Nina
A) I know this feels tough, but try not to take it personally.
As much as she’s your friend, everyone has to do what feels right for their career, and this opportunity might simply be what your colleague believes is best for her.
When you go into your interview, focus on presenting yourself with confidence and clarity.
Highlight the responsibilities you’ve taken on and the ways you’ve grown over the past six months.
Give examples of when you have achieved excellent results and contributed beyond your role.
Don’t be afraid to sell yourself.
As for your friend, try to reframe how you see this situation – competition is natural, and instead of focusing on the hurt, channel that energy into preparing well and showing why you are the right person for this role.
It’s normal to feel conflicted whenever friendship and work overlap, but don’t let it derail your confidence or ambitions.
Stay professional, trust in your own journey and give this interview your absolute best.
Good luck!
- Got a careers question for Karren? Email bossingit@fabulousmag.co.uk.
