Deciding what job you want to do can be confusing and difficult, and most people actually change their job role multiple times throughout their career until they find something they really love. If you do decide you want to change your career path, it might be worth seeing what positions are available at your current organisation before you start looking elsewhere! You are likely to have already built up a network of colleges and a positive reputation. Most departments would be happy to hire someone who already knows the company it can help them in many ways.
Transitioning into a new role can be difficult even within your own company, so here are our top five tips to help you ensure that your move is as easy as it can be for both you and your company:
1- Research, Research, Research
Sometimes if you don’t enjoy the role you are currently working in, it can be very easy to get into the mindset that the ‘grass is always greener elsewhere.’ Before you jump into a new career, take the time to talk to people you may know from that department and understand the role in more detail. The best thing about keeping it within the company is that people from the department you are interested in are likely to be honest and thorough with you regarding the department, as compared to a new interviewee where they are likely to hide any negatives. Research the roles and check that it’s something that you want to be doing before you apply
2- Speak To Your Manager
Under normal circumstances, you probably wouldn’t tell your manager you are job searching until you’ve actually found another job and been offered it. However, when you’re applying for another job in the same company, your management are going to need to know. They will find out one way or another (whether that’s from the person interviewing you, or someone who just happens to find out) so it’s always better to be upfront, honest and truthful. Explain why you feel you’re more fitted to a different department or role. This gives your manager the option of seeing if they can change your role to be more suited to you. Your manager might even want to see you progress within the company and put in a good word for you.
3- Be Patient
It can be difficult when you apply for an internal job because you feel like you are in limbo in your existing role. Chances are, your company is going to interview internal candidates, but they’re also going to take some time to allow external candidates to apply and interview too. This often takes much more time, so be patient and keep nailing your existing role just in case it does not materialise!
In general, something as complex as an internal transfer can actually be really time-consuming, your manager, potential new manager and your company’s HR team are all involved – so don’t be surprised if it takes more time than you were expecting.
4 - Prepare As Normal
Although you may know your interviewers (especially because you’ve worked in the same building as them previously), you should still treat your interview like any other interview. Prepare thoroughly and practice your answers. Just because you have a history of working for the company does not mean you are guaranteed the job! Impress them with your preparation and professionalism! We have many resources to help you with this at the end of this blog.
5- Get Ready
Get ready for the transition! Remember, even if you are changing roles, all of the experience and information you know about the company will seriously help you adjust to your new role. Although you may know some of the people in your new department, you can hit the ground running by building relationships with them and communicating with them when you see them. Be sure to ask your new manager if there is any research or information you should review before your start date. As well as this, it’s important that you end things with your current department in the most friendly and positive manner possible, you’re still going to see them around the building!
Conclusion
It can be a very exciting time when you decide to change your career direction. Progressing within your existing company can be the perfect way to do this. Remember to always give your best in your existing role as you never know what doors can be open to you in the future just through hard work and a good reputation!
Some good interview resources:
The Top 10 Interview Questions You Should ALWAYS Prepare For!
Research You Should Consider Before An Interview
Ultimate Guide to Preparing your CV
How To Completely Nail Your Zoom, Skype or any other Video Conferencing Interview!
What questions should you never ask in an interview?
How to Answer the Question: What are your Strengths?
How to Answer the Question: What motivates you at work?
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