To reject this promotion?

[waytheleaveswork]

Interviewed for an internal promotion two weeks ago. Told on Monday that I didn't get it, but they'd like to offer me a different role. Same pay rise and similar responsibilities (2k), but not the direction I'm interested in or the role I wanted. Worked very hard for the interview and came second. Trying not to let ego get in the way of a good decision but resent being told that 'this is a better fit' and something doesn't sit well. Big company, so other posts likely.

AIBU to turn it down?

Does this new role offer good career progression? Was you offered feedback on why you did not get the promotion?

I'd not take that from it at all; the company recognised your skills and thought you were deserving of a promotion, even if it wasn't the one you'd applied for.

I'd personally take the promotion unless I absolutely hated the idea of the role itself. You say yourself it has similar responsibilities, and in my experience a lateral move is always easier than a promotion, so you should be well-placed to move back into the direction you're interested in when a vacancy arises. Plus the extra cash never hurts!

You came second - ask for feedback before you decide - if there was an unusually strong candidate who got it - and we all know best candidates don’t necessarily do the best jobs - they are just more likely to. If you want this role then either sit tight or look externally if things don’t happen quickly enough.. Also if you are tempted to take the promotion offered consider how you would sell your decision to take this promotion at your next promotion. Good luck and well done for all your hard work - they clearly want to keep you, so your ego shouldn’t feel to badly knocked around.

Unless you dislike the people or Its a dead end department I'd do it for a year or move up/on after that.
Any red flags I'd decline. The monet isn't worth significant up heaval