Job annoyance - AIBU?

[Namerchangee]

I was recently unsuccessful at interview for an internal post. I was really disappointed to lose out to someone external. I was told I came a close second, which is cold comfort.

I’ve since received word from a manager in my organisation saying they have received excellent feedback on how my interview went and that in a highly competitive field I was impressive. They have told me there is going to be a working group related to the post I didn’t get and I will be a key group member.

No acknowledgment of any disappointment I might be feeling and no word on remuneration for this extra responsibility they want me to take on. I haven’t even been asked if I want to be part of it. It’s just been assumed I would want to.

How should I respond? AIBU in feeling very overlooked, frustrated and annoyed? I didn’t get the job and the pay rise but instead more work on top of my current work and no increase in pay.

RawBloomers, I think you're right and praise doesn't pay the bills does it.

Look elsewhere, I've been in this position and it's very frustrating. Look after yourself first and if you want a new job it sounds like you need to go somewhere else.

I'd reply something like,

'Hi Lesley, I was obviously very disappointed not to get xxx role so I am delighted to have the opportunity to join the new working group and further develop my skills and experience in this important field. I would be very grateful if this could be part of my development plan and one of my KPIs for the forthcoming year, instead of (ditch least preferred KPI). I'd appreciate a meeting to chat about it.

As an hr person, I suspect they see you as being interested in this area/field, as wanting to develop your CV to be able to move into it longer term and ad being someone they want to ensure gets development. They will see this as supporting you to hit all those buttons. Yes, they should have been more empathetic of course, but it's a positive!
I know you're disappointed but it's lovely feedback, and it's great you've a chance to strengthen your CV on the working group (honestly, these additional activities are worth gold, much more impressive than a training course, for example). Build your experience and learn from the feedback and next time I'm sure you'll be successful either in your current company or an external one.

Jumping on your thread here op, seems like you have been given some solid advice. In my role no new hires have been taken on and I have been dumped with extra work from another department which was shut down to save money. It's a lot of work. And no matter how calmly and professionally you try to explain this you are simply not listened to. I feel I have to leave as it has been badly affecting my confidence and mental health. I'm so angry. I feel utterly powerless and cheated.

I completely understand your disappointment.

It's clear they value your contribution and are trying to somehow compensate you for not getting the job.

I hate when existing employees are overlooked for opportunities in favour of external candidates.

Maybe to get the development you need it is the right time to move on.