Outperform Your External Competition When Looking To Move Jobs Internally

“Opportunity dances with those who are already on the dance floor”

A majority of internal applicants believe that they have a greater chance of securing an internal role as they already have their foot in the door…think again!

It makes sense for an employer to recruit internally before they consider external candidates. Providing existing employees with new challenges or promotions is great for company morale and having a high retention rate is a great achievement for any business. Other factors to consider include utilising the existing talent of individuals who have already bought into the company. These people already understand the systems and processes and are familiar with the company culture and the vision of the organisation.

Why then do so many internal applicants feel disheartened when they are not offered the opportunity within?

I have listed 5 key points as to how you as an internal applicant can ensure that you become your company’s preferred choice when hiring:

1. Preparation - Internal applicants can sometimes forget that they need to prepare in the same way as they would for an external interview. It’s important that you update your CV with the most current information and don’t assume that because you work for the firm that the interviewer will know all about you. One of the most common mistakes made by an internal candidate is to hold back on information about their skills and experience.

2. Promote Yourself - Whilst it can feel awkward to sell yourself to someone that you already know or have worked alongside it’s important that you promote yourself in the same way that other applicants will be doing. Provide the same amount of detail as you would for any external role.

3. Don’t Assume - The interviewer doesn’t necessarily understand your role fully on the basis that they work for the company, ensure that you provide all the details and leave nothing out, by providing limited information you may cost yourself the opportunity

4. Presentation - Dress to impress regardless of dress policies within the organisation. Make an effort and show that you’re interested.

5. Networking - Is the role really what you want? Utilise your contacts by networking internally, speak to your peers within that team and find out more about the person who will be interviewing you, what do they expect from their staff, what are their values within the department.

Please note that it’s important that you ask questions and show that you are interested in the role, always send a thank you note or email regardless to how well you know the person. Be enthusiastic and don’t be afraid to ask for the job if that’s what you want!

Nikki Hutchison, founder of Chilli Pepper Global http://www.chillipepperglobal.com/ London City Interview Performance Mentor, advising you on every aspect of the job seeking process whether you are looking to move jobs internally or externally.