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I don't think you were too ambitious. I think you were honest. The best EAs often grow into Chiefs of Staff, Operations Managers, and other leadership roles because they already understand how the organization runs. Unfortunately, some hiring managers hear "growth" and think "flight risk."
Don't let one company's interpretation convince you that ambition is a negative. The right leader will see it as a strength, not a threat.
Thank you 😊
Mentor
It can be a red flag when someone is hiring because of you aren't getting the traction there, then they feel you will likely go elsewhere for it.
While I've had similar growth goals, I wouldn't say it in interviews. Instead I would say I was looking for a place to grow professionally, not necessarily in position (though that was the case), but in my professional capabilities to be able to excel at the EA role. People seemed much more accepting of that.
But to be honest the slightest things tend to scare people. I have a master's degree and was turned down a lot because they thought I would be too bored and leave. So I learned to leave that off my resume unless a job listing mentioned a preference for one. I was also an admin lead, so I supervised people. They thought I'd be bored for taking a regular EA job where I wasn't more in leadership. There can be no winning sometimes.
I've seen this happen. Sometimes employers hear "Chief of Staff" or "Operations Lead" and immediately think "flight risk," while candidates are simply expressing a desire to grow within the organization. Ambition isn't a red flag to me—it's all about whether the company sees growth as an asset or a retention risk.
Yes, to them it may be a flight risk. However it also tells me they dont necessary care or have the path for your growth. The better opportunity will present to you....one that the company would want their best employees to grow in the company even if they may need to find another candidate to fulfill your role. To me that's all good sign. I am still hopeful those companies and managers are still out there though dont come by often these days.
POV is the company might not have high budget to keep you for long / growth
Where they felt you will not be in for long, thus doesn’t wanna waste time and effort on you.
that’s why they settle for others.
I'm surprised you received feedback. I have had 37 interviews with none. Take it and don't let it live in your head. Save your energy for a place that will value you for you. Hang in there!