A new position has just opened up in your company, and you would love to apply. But just how do you make the move, without offending or burning any bridges? Here are some tips on how to apply for an internal job position:
1. Find out everything you can about the position. Do you know why the previous employee left? What is the boss like? Has there been a lot of turn over? What is the future of the department and position? It’s important to know the answers to these questions, and more, before you make it public that you want to move to a new position. One way to get this information is to ask the employee who left. If that’s not possible, see what you can find out from co-workers or others in the department.
2. Once you’ve decided that this position is a good fit for you, alert your boss. Let your boss know that you intend to apply for the internal position. You want to be sure you don’t burn any bridges, and it will be even better if you can get your boss’ support.
3. Call on your network to put in a good word for you. If your boss is supportive, ask if he or she will put in a good word. If you have good relationships with other managers, talk to them about your interest. You may even want to set up a lunch or coffee meeting to directly express your interest in the position to the manager. However, be careful how open you are about your interest because some of your co-workers may also be your competition.
4. Update your resume to reflect the new skills you have acquired and the contributions you have made while at the company. Just because you have worked at the company doesn’t mean your interviewers know what you did. Furthermore, you may be competing with a number of internal candidates, and your resume will be the key to rising above the rest.
5. If you are asked to interview, don’t assume your interviewer knows you or that you have the job. Prepare for the interview as though you are a new hire. You may even be held to a higher standard since you have had experience with the company. Make sure you are well-prepared.