To turn down a promotion?

[Elphie54]

My current direct supervisor has suggested that I take the exam for a promotion in January so that I can be considered in the next promotional class. I’ve been on the job for almost 18 years, and I truly love it. Taking the exam does not guarantee the promotion, but once taken, it usually can’t be rescinded. Right now I love where I’m working (promotion would mean a transfer) and love the work I’m doing. Average time from exam to promotion is usually a year to 3 years. Supervisor argues that I should take it because if I want the promotion in the future, it may wind up being a long wait. The pay difference is not all that different. Just not sure if I want to uproot from where I am comfortable. Would I be unreasonable to say that it is a firm no right now?

Personally I would do the exam, you don't know what the future holds and your feelings might change.

That’s true. I just don’t want to feel like once I take it, I’ll be obligated to accept (which you kind of are).

I’m unable to be promoted in my work at present due to not having an additional qualification. I turned down the chance to do it 5 years ago , I’m now on mat leave and won’t be able to apply for the course till Sep 2019 and cant apply for promotion till 2020.
I would do the exam and then you have options as Hindsight is a wonderful thing

Suggest do the exam. I agree you don't know what the future holds. You may be in a position in the future and wish you had gained a free qualification.

Thanks everyone. Guess I really really think about it that way. Will go for the exam.

Not looking forward to studying.

If you like the job you do don’t change.

I went for a job to become the manager for the department I work in. But at the interview I pulled out because the role would have been a royal pain in the arse.

So please I did the person that took the job gets shit thrown at him from all directions and I don’t think I could be PC enough not to have been sacked for speaking my mind.

hmm nope. I wouldn't endlessly strive if you are happy doing what you are doing. You don't have to compete in the rat race if you don't want to. Being happy in your work is a rare gift and not something to be sacrificed on the altar of 'progress'.

I would do the exam, you don’t have to go for promotion but I figure qualifications are always good to have. Even if you change industry, it shows commitment and that you’re capable of passing industry exams.

It is not really a qualification, not sure how to explain it. Basiacally it is the qualifying exam to change ranks/become a lieutenant.

It would be totally useless if I chose to change jobs.