Just realised, maybe this is as far as I can go

[StealthPolarBear]

I have a job that I really love so feel lucky. however I've been applying for the next job up for a while now, internal or in very similar organisation ms and not been successful. I get good feedback and have always assumed I'd just keep on trying. But I've just thought maybe this is it, maybe this is as far as I can go given my capabilities. Ugh.

I'd try to get feedback along the lines of "where could I have improved for me to have been successful in the interview". Sometimes they are willing to give some nuggets that could give you ideas to develop.

Everyone hits plateaus it isn't always a straight path upwards. It may even need you to take a downward direction in a new industry or role, to then move upwards again. If you are in a role you like for now, you're a lot luckier than some!

Do you have a good line manager who can give you honest feedback?

I do ask for feedback which is helpful but then the next time it's something different iyswim?
My line manager is very supportive but thinks I am working at that level already and so assumes it's jusy bad luck so far. But it keeps happening :(

Are you acting on the feedback?

Yes but that's what I mean each time it's something slightly different

Are you very experienced perhaps more so than those directly superior to you?

Have experienced similar in the public sector - Ultimately I think those above me felt threatened as numerous people couldn't understand why I wasn't successful when seeking a step up.Has the relevant qualifications experience etc. Just don't think I was ever going to be a good fit with the existing management team

In the end I left and set up my own consultancy - having the last laugh now.

It was the push I needed but also if you like your job and feel happy there is nothing wrong with just enjoying your work as it is .If opportunities present you can always give it a go ….but don't build it up into the be all and end all.

Are there any mentoring schemes where you work? Sometimes that can be helpful. Or networking events? Personally I find networking a pain in the arse, but it does help to get to know people and opportunities sometimes come up that way.

I am experienced but I don't think it's that! Think iy was a few that were bad luck and now I've just convinced myself ill never move up so don't perform well at interview :(
I do probacvly need to work more at networking. We're a national organisation so it's a bit more difficult but if you do make the effort to get out there I think it is noticed

And sometimes you get lucky and meet someone genuinely helpful who will remember you somewhere down the line - I've known more people get promotions that way than just applying for advertised positions. They still have to do an interview, but have often been contacted and asked to apply.
Also, you could identify a particular skill you'd be interested in improving or learning and see if you can get on a course, so you've got something extra to offer from others.

It all takes energy though, which is hard to muster when a bit demoralised. I feel your pain!

Thanks. I am doi g the professional qualification in the area in which I work. Not technically needed but will hopefully help and very interesting!

Well maybe it was just that you didn't have the qualification and once you have completed it you will fly! Good luck.

If you are getting good feedback from both your actual line managers and the recruiters for the jobs you are applying for I very much doubt that you've reached your plateau or that you'll never get that promotion.

I work in HR so sit in on a lot of interviews and (outside of very senior and specialist positions) a lot of the time there are 2 or even 3 or more candidates who are perfectly capable of doing the role. It then just comes down to whose particular skills or experience are the best fit for the role and the team at that time and (frankly!) who the panel liked best and could see themselves working with. I don't know how many jobs you've applied for but it's quite possible you've just been unlucky and been on the wrong side of that line a few times.

I would just keep doing what you are doing, boost your CV as far as possible, make sure your interview technique is 100% on point but really just persist in applying and I'm sure you'll get there!