To apply for the job or not?

[Elfie23]

Hi all, posting here for traffic.

Wont say what the job is as it’s slightly niche and may be outing.

Worked at this place for just over 4 years. Started part time in 2021 in one ‘side’ of the department, in 2022 took on another part time role which gave me more depth to the original role. A new manager took over at this point and as less than effective shall we say. So deputy manager and I basically took the reins, me being lead by DM.
End of 2023 manager left, DM stepped up to manager and I stepped up to DM which involved learning about the other side of the department. I’d say I’m now 90% confident in this area but not as quick as others who do this side of things (I’m the only person in the department to have worked both sides).

Manager has involved me in everything so I can see what they do and I run the team when manager is on annual leave / sick etc.

Manager is now looking to leave and it would be the expectation that I apply for the role.
Some days I feel I could do it and others not, like when they have a really obscure enquiry or something complex comes up.
This manager has 20 years experience in this department and previous managers have been managers before and really knew their stuff.

So the question - it would be a 10k pay rise but a lot of added responsibility and possibly pressure.
I’m 38 so risk someone else coming in my age who then ‘blocks’ that job for the next 5/10/20 years.
I’m not 100% confident - would you go for it?

Not being unreasonable = go for it
Being unreasonable = don’t go for it

How much would your life change from the 10k increase in terms of financially?

OP, when I’ve been in a similar position I know deep down if I really want the job. If you feel like you do, then apply. You can then weigh it up further if offered.

Go for it. You say you aren't as quick and have knowledge gaps with some types of obscure enquiry, but you'll soon gain that with experience. Have more faith in yourself OP. They'll be lucky to have you.

Go for it, you’ve got nothing to lose.

Also, having been a manager, you never know the answer all the time, there is always some obscure thing that crops up that you’ve never dealt with before. Plus, your employers will know you don’t have the experience of the previous person and should take that into account, and give you a bit more support, should you get the job.

Even the most experienced managers are like swans, calm and knowledgeable on top, paddling furiously below so don’t let that intimidate you!

Some days I feel I could do it and others not,

This is telling me that it's a "reach" role, that means growth... so yeah go for it. That's how you learn.

Thank you all, I feel like I should go for it but having a confidence wobble!

@Manif3st101Lol love the swan comparison! 😂 that helps a lot x

Just go for it, you’ve nothing to lose, if you don’t you’ll always think ‘what if’.

Good luck x