I’m 25 years old and have been working as a junior manager in a trading company for 4 years. Recently, our internal email said that another department is looking for a new boss. I sent my resume. But...

First let me congratulate you for taking that step and applying. Do not listen to the noise, instead continue to be courageous and ask the HR head... and Deputy what would make you a stronger candidate. Their response was by no means professional, but don’t allow that to deter you. You said that there are other 20 something year olds heading Dept’s in that company so clearly being young isn’t the issue. Be inquisitive find out what the other young head of the depts did to get their promotions. Find the missing piece and fill it. Then try again. Ask/ volunteer for assignments that will demonstrate your leadership quality. If you have been treated well by this company thus far why quit? Being the head of a dept or anything takes maturity and the ability to make sound and reasonable decisions. Sometimes you have to stand by those decisions when they aren’t the most popular. If you’re considering quitting because of what HR did then maybe that’s the missing piece, maturity and confidence. more