The recent presidential election and the outcome for Kamala Harris offer a unique lens for exploring the emotions that come with not achieving a high-stakes goal, like vying for a promotion and facing disappointment. When we put our all into something and hope for a certain outcome, the disappointment can be profound, and sometimes, it’s difficult to move past the frustration and hurt. Let’s look at how this experience resonates on both the political and personal scale, and what workplaces can do to support those who feel they’ve missed out on an important career goal.
Kamala Harris and the Weight of Expectation
The presidential election is one of the most public, pressure-filled arenas where dreams of influence and leadership are at stake. Kamala Harris, as the sitting Vice President, went into the election with high hopes from herself and her supporters. But when the results didn’t fall in her favour, it was likely a deeply personal loss for her a culmination of years of effort, public scrutiny, and personal ambition.
This experience is not unlike what many of us feel in our careers. Imagine preparing for a promotion, working extra hours, building relationships, perhaps sacrificing personal time all with the hope of moving up. When the promotion doesn’t materialise, it feels like more than just a professional setback; it’s a personal disappointment that can impact our confidence, motivation, and even our relationship with our job.
The “Why Not Me?” Question
One of the most difficult aspects of missing out on a promotion is the inevitable question, “Why not me?” Just as Harris may be reflecting on what she could have done differently, professionals who are passed over for a promotion often wonder what factors played into the decision. This ambiguity can lead to self-doubt and sometimes resentment, especially if the person chosen seems less experienced or if the criteria for promotion weren’t transparent. At this juncture, it’s crucial for leaders and organisations to recognise that these are natural and valid feelings. Workplaces that acknowledge these emotions openly create an environment where employees feel respected and valued, even if things didn’t go their way this time around.
How Workplaces Can Support Employees Who Didn’t Get the Promotion
A supportive workplace plays an important role in helping employees navigate this challenging experience. Here are a few ways companies can help:
Provide Transparent Feedback
Open, constructive feedback is key. It helps the employee understand why they weren’t selected and, more importantly, what they can work on to be a stronger candidate in the future. This honest approach can build trust and show that the organisation cares about the employee’s development.
Acknowledge Their Hard Work and Contributions
Taking a moment to recognise the employee’s dedication and hard work, even if it didn’t result in a promotion, can help soothe feelings of disappointment. A simple acknowledgment shows appreciation for their efforts and reinforces their value to the team.
Offer a Path Forward
A clear development plan can help employees refocus on new goals. Managers can work with employees to set achievable milestones and connect them with resources or training that may help them become a stronger candidate for the next opportunity. This approach transforms disappointment into a constructive path forward, helping employees feel hopeful and motivated rather than discouraged.
Encourage Open Dialogue and Emotional Support
Leaders should be approachable and willing to have open conversations about how the employee is feeling. Sometimes, just being able to talk about their disappointment with a trusted supervisor or a mentor can alleviate some of the frustration and help them process the setback. Most workplaces have a Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) these are employee benefit programmes that offers employees a safe space to discuss any of their personal or professional challenges that may negatively impact their work performance and mental health. Its useful to signpost colleagues to these if you have them available.
Turning Disappointment into Motivation
Disappointment, especially when it’s tied to personal ambition, is hard to overcome. For Kamala Harris, the journey forward will undoubtedly involve reflection, resilience, and a renewed focus on her long-term goals. Likewise, employees who miss out on a promotion can find strength in knowing that every experience positive or negative is a building block for the future.
If you’ve ever found yourself in this position, remember that it’s okay to feel hurt and disappointed. Those feelings are natural. Over time, and with the right support, these setbacks can become valuable learning experiences that ultimately make us stronger, wiser, and better prepared for the next opportunity.