How to Make an Internal Job Transfer

Have you been working at your job for some time and feel that it that you are ready for the next level?  You think, “I can do my boss’ job” (maybe even better). Perhaps you feel bored with your current role and job tasks and want to challenge your skill-set so you will feel more accomplished.  If so, it sounds as if you’re ready to make a move to a new position.  Rather than leaving, one of the best ways is to move up within your organization.  Making an internal job transfer is not as easy as some might think and it’s also not as difficult.

There are definite advantages to applying within your organization.  They include:

• You are already an employee
• There are no on-boarding costs
• They know the quality of your work
• A transfer is an easier process as opposed to hiring from outside

There are also some disadvantages:

• Your boss may not want to lose you
• They know you but don’t think you have the right skills, knowledge or abilities
• They want “fresh” ideas
• They know the quality of your work

Typically, companies, like Disney for example, will hire from within due to the reasons I listed above.  They would prefer to reward their workers with promotions or lateral moves to more challenging ones and to meet the organization’s needs.  You might not be a good fit on your current team but could be on another.  Seizing the moment will help you to get where you would like to be in your career.

Here are some tips to help you make the most of an internal job transfer:

1. First, begin by asking yourself why you want to leave your current position; for a promotion? to work for another manager? to gain more skills and experience?  Knowing why will help you to determine if your reasons are valid or not. You don’t want to make a move for a poor reason.
2. Next, self-assess by writing down all the skills, experiences, knowledge, abilities, etc. that you could bring to your desired position.  This will also help you to uncover any gaps that you may need to brush up on, such as certain skills or procedures that may be required or would be of value.
3. Begin researching available positions on your company’s job board; this is the first place to start. I would suggest looking up desired positions on various job boards, such as Indeed, Monster or Career Builder; companies often post positions there that may not be on their site.  Then, identify the position you want and see what skills are needed and match them to yours. Look who the hiring manager is and any contact information.
4. Start networking with people you know in that particular department to ask about the position and how work is in that area.  If you don’t know anyone, see who you may know that may know someone – it’s about finding ways to get connected and to gain more information.
5. Look at the internal application process and how it is structured; do you need to speak to your direct manager before you can apply, how is that communicated, do you need to submit a resume, etc. You want to go through the proper channels so you will be more successful without jeopardizing your current position.
6. Update your resume to reflect any current new skills, projects, tasks, knowledge, seminars attended, and the like that you have taken on since you were hired. Be sure to highlight them in your cover letter, as well as why you would be a good fit for the desired position.  Emphasize how much you like working for the company and that you want to continue to contribute to their mission, which is why you are asking for the transfer.

Be sure to hone up on your interviewing skills and be as positive and productive as you can while you are waiting; employees who show initiative and a positive attitude get more noticed.  Making an internal job transfer can help you create the career path you’ve wanted – following these steps will help.  Have you ever made an internal job transfer and is there anything you would add?  Would love to hear!