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What to do to avoid a promotion?

I've been notified by 2 higher-ups on 2 different occasions, that I will probably get promoted soon, because there's an opening. But I don't want the additional responsibilities. I really like the place where I am at right now. I get along with everyone, I have good bonuses, not too much pressure on getting the work done, because I always come through. It's like the best middle ground to be in.
But this promotion implies managing everyone, recruiting, firing and probably a lot of staying after hours and sleepless nights.
However at the same time you can't just say "No, thanks", can you?

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SW-User

Not saying that you wouldn't be good at it, but a lot of companies just seem to want to keep promoting people out of jobs they are really good at and keep sending them up and up, until they finally get to a place where they're really not that good and are stressed and unhappy, and that's where they stay. It's actually called, "The Peter Principle"

Dan193 · 31-35, M

@SW-User I'll look into it, thanks.

SW-User

@Dan193 Google the peter principle.. it seems to match your situation. Hope you get to stay in your job though. I'm like you, the ideal job is one i'm good at that has low stress.

metaldog · 51-55

@SW-User I just did! I'd never heard of it before but it makes perfect sense

Dan193 · 31-35, M

@SW-User Exactly!

SW-User

@metaldog Yeah and it's kinda scary too. The idea originates with technology but translates to the corporate world really well.

metaldog · 51-55

@SW-User it makes sense to give further responsibilities to someone that is able and competent

SW-User

@SW-User Just read it. It's really interesting. 🙂

SW-User

@metaldog It sure does. The problem arises when they determine that based on their current level of expertise, the person is capable of more, without having tested them in the more advanced environment.

SW-User

@SW-User I think so too. It doesn't always apply but often it does and you can see it used in some companies that have had great employees who have become really incompetent managers etc.

metaldog · 51-55

@SW-User I suppose their reasoning is that they'll learn...they'll expand on what they know

SW-User

@metaldog That's true, but i think few people have unlimited potential. Most of us have a ceiling based on a number of factors with one of those limitations being lack of training and support. And some companies like to throw people into the deep end and expect them to swim and it's their subordinates and customers that suffer.

metaldog · 51-55

@SW-User yes well that is very true and that is probably most cases!

SW-User

@metaldog It's an interesting concept to consider though and there are always exceptions. I've been in jobs where i've taken on more and totally amazed myself at what i achieved. On the other hand i've had bosses force me into responsibilities that i've completely failed in. I like what Dan the OP said, stick with a job your good at that's low stress :)

metaldog · 51-55

@SW-User yes but then you never know what you can do...I think the key is knowing whether you want the extra stress that comes with responsibility

SW-User

@metaldog That is a great point. So then what if someone wants to see how far they can go? They keep trying until they reach that point... the peter principle, where they become less competent. So then do they say, oh this is not allowing me to be at my best and then go back to the job they had before? Or do they stick with it because their boss won't let them go back? It's really interesting i think because i've always worked for big companies and have contemplated this situation often.

metaldog · 51-55

@SW-User yes of course there should be an option to bail out if you're not handling it..it's crazy to keep someone there who isn't