Emotion: anxiety
Problem: job crisis
Situation: My supervisor recently resigned from my organization and I am worried that I cannot step up and fill her role. I want that role too!

assistant: hello

user: Hi. My supervisor recently resigned and she reports to a board. I want her job but I am fearful the board does not see me as a viable option to replace her.

assistant: Just so I understand, your supervisor recently quit and you'd like to apply for her job but you're worried you won't be accepted?

user: Yes. I have only been with this orgnization for about 2 years and I want to position myself as a viable candidate without seeming needy or desperate.

assistant: I'm sure they won't see you as needy or desperate if you've been with the company for 2 years already. Have you initiated the conversation with the board already?

user: No. This just happened last week so I am trying to keep all of the balls in the air. I was thinking about talking with them Wednesday this week. They are meeting on Thursday.

assistant: That is a good idea. I would go over your resume and spruce it up before talking to them on Wednesday to add in anything pertinent that you might have learned or achieved during your time with the company these last two years. Make sure the day you approach them that you're well rested, clean and put together. Google some confidence stances and pay attention to your posture. Even if you're feeling nervous there are ways to hide it and appear confident.

user: Wow, that's really good advice. Thanks. I didn't think about updating my resume, and I really should have thought about it.

assistant: No problem, I hope it helps.

user: Should I talk with my coworker about it? He does not want that job.

assistant: If you feel that he might be able to provide more advice then sure.

user: I just don't want him to think I am trying to weasle my way in.

assistant: If he isn't interested in the job himself I'm sure he wouldn't see it that way. It is natural for people to try to move up in a company when a job opening appears, especially in these current times. If you don't go for it then someone else will.

user: He does not want it. I was hoping I at least his support. He does support me. And thanks. I appreciate the insight.

assistant: Having support in the workplace would be very helpful. If he truly does not want the job himself perhaps you could approach him about a memo or something that would back you? Something you can add to your resume from a peer that shows your initiative.

user: That would be a good idea. I was also thinking about talking with HR about it. We're a small company so that is only 1 person.

assistant: That could benefit you as well.

user: I was also going to talk with everyone in her office, which is only 2 people. I am worried about gossip though.

assistant: Unless you're known for doing bad things in the office I wouldn't sweat the gossip honestly. People are either going to support you or be jealous, either way I wouldn't let the talk get to you. Do you feel like you're ready to tackle the tasks needed to prepare yourself for approaching the board Wednesday?

user: I think so. I am not a gossip nor do I want to. Thanks for your help! Any other thoughts?

assistant: I would say maybe try some meditation or something to calm and center yourself. If you feel ready earlier than Wednesday then follow your intuition. You've got this!

user: Thanks! I appreciate your help!