“Why did the company bring you in from the outside, instead of promoting a 12 year veteran?” I asked. “The two of you are about the same age. And she has more years of specific experience.”

Joan thought for a minute. “You are right. She has more experience, in doing the work, but I don’t think they brought me in to do more work.”

“So, why do you think they brought you into the company? What do you bring to the table, that is different? And what is so different about your role, that they would pass over someone on the inside?”

“I don’t know,” Joan shook her head. “And this was never discussed during the interview process. But it was definitely an intentional decision.”