Wanting a ‘demotion’ in next role

[Hairybaker]

I am currently a director however I feel I have been overpromoted and am not happy in my role. I would much rather be manager level (more within my comfort zone and prefer the ‘doing’ rather than the strategy side). I think many recruiters would be put off by seeing Director in my current job title. How would you get around this? I can explain on cover letters etc but still feel some companies would be put off.

How come you feel overpromoted?

Can you take the title off and just put what you do in the description? Date, Company then the "duties & achievements" underneath in bullet points. Get you to interview or conversation before you need to explain x

I just feel out of my depth and constantly feel worried about work and making the wrong decisions. I’m in control of big budgets from clients and in an unpredictable market (due to COVID) under a lot of pressure. I just feel I would be better with someone above me making decisions. Also not a fan of managing a big team!

The idea of leaving the director of the job title though could be good! Hadn’t thought of that! Thank you Nohomemadecandles.

@Hairybaker

I just feel out of my depth and constantly feel worried about work and making the wrong decisions. I’m in control of big budgets from clients and in an unpredictable market (due to COVID) under a lot of pressure. I just feel I would be better with someone above me making decisions. Also not a fan of managing a big team!

The idea of leaving the director of the job title though could be good! Hadn’t thought of that! Thank you Nohomemadecandles.

It sounds like you need more support, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve been over promoted. Don’t write it off till you’re sure. Is your manager aware? Maybe a more experienced director could mentor you?

I took a step back and said for family reasons I was looking for a less demanding role. No one questioned it really.

I know someone who did this, but it was into a related, although lesser role. Could you sideways/downwards move into employment that needed the skills you wish to use, but that isn’t necessarily in exactly the same field?
Eg, senior social work to school safeguarding position?

How long have you been in your role?

I’ve been in the role for about three years having originally joined the company at manager level around 7 years ago.

don't say you're looking for something less demanding, or be negative about your current role. Neither of these are good looks for recruiters. Being positive is good - e.g. looking for a role where you are more directly working on delivery.

I went from manager in a smallish charity which had to fold and had been extremely stressful, to support worker in a slightly bigger one. When I applied, the director was worried that I wouldn't want a lesser role, but I am so much happier and recently chose to not go for a promotion as the thought of having more responsibility and stress was actually quite horrible to think about!
I never felt worthy of managerial posts, despite having three one after the other, and stressed so much about them that this is perfect. We're not all cut out to stride ahead!

What sector are you in, it makes a difference to my response?

I just wanted to mention this other thread in case you hadn’t seen it OP - lots of people in a similar position (I’m one of them too, and was glad to see I’m not alone!)

www.mumsnet.com/Talk/work/4193104-Are-there-other-people-out-there-who-don-t-want-to-progress-at-work