Should I apply ?

[Tigga2]

I’ve been on temporary promotion for 8 months and the role is being made permanent, the upshot is I will need to apply for the post. The management team have informed me of this but made a major point of saying “you will need to plan what you will do if you don’t get the job” “You should try applying for other jobs for the application/interview experience” My previous job is still there so employment is not an issue or dropping down a grade. Am I being paranoid in thinking they do not want me to apply for it or think I’m capable . I feel I’m being put off applying.

Did your management clarify when they offered you this "temporary promotion" that it would involve applying for the permanent role?

Normally when "acting up" your employer should be clear upfront about the duration of the promo and the options at the end of the assignment, i.e. you are guaranteed your old job / grade back, or they make you permanent in the promo role, or if you don't perform to the level needed what they would do with you, as effectively it amounts to them putting the onus on you to find a new vacancy and telling you "you don't have a job here". If you have the required service history, they cannot just sack you!

You need them to clarify the situation as soon as possible. Do they mean if you don't succeed in the interview they will make you redundant (have you 2+ years unbroken service with the company?). What if you don't find another role in the company?

Eek sorry I just noticed you will have employment. Wishes for an edit button!

In that case, definitely apply for the role, you have nothing to lose but also apply for other roles

The point I had omitted to say was, did you get any support during your promo role to make any changes or improvements? That might tell you whether you have the skills they need. Normally on a trial promo a manager worth their salt ought to give clues as to areas for improvement

Who's been filling your previous post? They might just be covering themselves - we've had people not get there temp promotion posts even though everyone wanted to/they were good enough etc but literally an external more suitable candidate popped out of the woodwork - so i wouldn't take it as a criticism they may just be being clear that it isn't a guaranteed? Have you had feedback on how you're doing? Definitely apply if you've been enjoying it.

Yes, apply!

Thanks for the advice. My old role is still there for me to go back to, its currently being covered by agency staff. This was a new role that was created and I was the “guinea pig”. I’ve had my ups and downs but recently I’ve started to feel more confident and define the role. It’s just the last few days have knocked me back. I think I will apply and still look around for other jobs.