It’s a big deal to decide to apply for an internal position at the company where you currently work. It’s not a decision to be made lightly, and the thought of having to discuss it with your current boss adds to the process’ complexity. How do you inform your boss that you’re applying for a job internally?
What is an internal job posting?
A position that is open to current employees within the business they work for is advertised internally. Many businesses and government agencies post job openings internally to encourage development among current employees. Members who already work for a company are usually more familiar with its rules and working conditions, which reduces the amount of time needed for training compared to hiring an outsider.
The application procedure for internal positions typically differs slightly from that of external positions. The hiring manager may ask different questions than those you would encounter in an external interview, but you will almost certainly still need to submit an application and prepare for an interview. It is crucial to be prepared for the internal hiring process so that you present professionally at all times and position yourself as the best applicant for the position.
How to apply to an internal job posting
The steps you can take to respond to an internal job posting are as follows:
1. Research the open position
You can decide whether to apply for a position by learning as much as you can about an internal job posting. You can learn several crucial details by speaking with current employees of the position you’re considering, such as:
Additionally, you might want to speak with the department human resources manager in charge of filling the position. You can discuss the job requirements, your skills and experience, and the reasons you think you are a good fit for the position with the manager during this meeting. Additionally, inquire with the HR manager about any tips they may have for applying for the position and whether they think you are a strong candidate.
You might want to meet the manager of the department where you want to work in addition to the HR manager. Find a team if at all possible and discuss the open position and the ideal candidate with them. When they start reviewing resumes, introducing yourself before applying can make your application materials stand out.
2. Target your resume and cover letter to the job
Rewrite your cover letter and resume before submitting an application for an internal position. In order for the hiring manager to notice and remember your application, tailor both of your documents to the position for which you are applying. You can update your resume and cover letter using the information you have learned about the position. Think about the qualities that other workers mentioned as being crucial to their success and emphasize past achievements that show you have these qualities.
Use your cover letter to discuss particular projects you have worked on and other accomplishments that are relevant to the job you are applying for. Remove anything that does not apply to the new job while updating your resume and cover letter. Instead of focusing on your achievements prior to your current role, emphasize the company-wide goals you have achieved.
3. Get ready for the interview
When applying for an internal job posting, preparation for the interview is essential. Since the interviewer is unfamiliar with you or your professional background, you should conduct yourself in the interview as if you were an outside candidate.
Begin preparing by learning as much as you can about the position and department. Make sure you are up to date on departmental developments, especially those that pertain to the position you are applying for.
Another effective strategy for preparing for an interview is to review potential interview questions. It will be simpler to give thoughtful, memorable answers if you are aware of the types of questions the interviewer might ask. You can look up sample interview questions online or ask current employees what kinds of questions they had to respond to during their interviews.
Review the internal job posting in detail before the interview. Consider how your qualifications compare to the requirements by identifying them. Next, consider how to most persuasively present your credentials during the interview.
Be sure to dress professionally for the interview. It will appear as though you value making a good impression and take the interview seriously if you dress appropriately for business.
4. Follow up after the interview
You can write the interviewer a thank-you note the following day to express appreciation for their time and consideration. Sending a handwritten note will give your application a more personal touch, and it will also help the hiring manager keep you in mind when making their choice. If you can’t send a physical note, you can send an email instead. To guarantee that the hiring manager sees your email in their inbox, the subject line of your email should be succinct and informative.
If you are hired, you can write your new manager a second thank you note. You can express your gratitude for the opportunity and your commitment to the job in your note. You might also want to express your gratitude to everyone who helped you personally during the application process, especially your managers and coworkers.
5 Tips to Help You Apply to an Internal Job
FAQ
Can you apply an internal job posting?
Job Postings and Internal Candidates While an external applicant can submit an application for an internal job posting, in most cases, external applicants will have to wait until internal candidates have had the opportunity to decline the position, also known as “the right of first refusal.”
What do you say to your boss when applying for an internal position?
Discuss in private Tell her that although you like your job and value the opportunities it has given you, you’re hoping to advance in the organization. Inform her of your interest in the available position and request her assessment of your qualifications for the position.
Should I tell my boss I’m applying for an internal job?
Many businesses demand that whenever an employee applies for another position within the business, current managers be notified. Even if this rule doesn’t apply to you, it’s always best to tell your boss the truth and explain why you’re looking for work elsewhere.
How do you ask for internal job opportunities?
- Construct an internal support system. …
- Meet with the HR representative in charge of the position.
- Leverage your position and success within the company. …
- Use your insider advantage to ask smart questions. …
- Send a thank-you letter. …
- Update your resume.
