I held my breath. Here it comes: The promotion and raise I’ve worked so hard for–and put up with under-the-radar sexual harassment over.
When I’d first arrived at the closed-door meeting, the HR Vice President, David, had handed me my performance review. Written by the man to whom I reported, it described the program I’d conceived, birthed, nurtured, and reared to a $1.4 million profit center. It mentioned my work ethic and professionalism. It was suitable for framing.
My eyes probably got misty. I was so proud; so sure I had turned a final corner. Now I’d be able to get away from the hated part of my job—close interactions with him–while keeping the part I loved.
The Human Resources VP didn’t keep me in suspense: “Congratulations, you’re being promoted to Marketing Coordinator.”
Are you KIDDING me?! Fortunately I’d just screamed that question in my head.
Aloud I said, “With the success of the XYZ promotion, I was expecting the marketing manager role.” It was a position between mine and the VP Marketing. It was open but hadn’t yet been posted.
“We actually just hired someone for that position. You know him: Rick X. He interned with you last summer.”
Yup. I knew him: Brooks Brothers blazer, $2000 loafers; Daddy was a board member.
The HR VP went on, “I trust you’ll welcome Rick and help him get up to speed in his new role.” Gut-punched as I felt, I inhaled and was able to ask calmly, “What is the percentage of my pay increase?”
(To Be Continued . . .)
