How to Interview for a Different Job at the Same Workplace

All interviews should be handled professionally, including those at your current company.

Sometimes the best opportunities for career advancement can be found in your current workplace. If you have already established a good reputation as a diligent worker and conscientious colleague, you will most likely already have a leg up against outside competition. Although you are already employed by the company, it will be important to highlight the benefits you can bring to a new position during your job interview.

Things You'll Need

• Resume
• Performance reviews
• References

Instructions

1. Contact your company's human resources department as soon as you hear about an opening in your company that you feel you are qualified to pursue. If there isn't a defined department, speak to the person in charge of hiring to find out what types of materials you should submit along with your resume to be considered for the job.

2. Update you resume. Include your most recent accomplishments that have benefited the company or your individual department in some way. Don't assume that your talents and work ethic are commonly known facts throughout the company.

3. Write a cover letter just as you would if you were applying for a job at another company. In it, list concrete reasons why you believe a move to the open position would be a positive one, both for the company and for you. Keep the letter, along with your resume, very professional.

4. Inform your current boss that you are going to be interviewing for another position. While it might make for a slightly uncomfortable conversation, it would be far more awkward if he finds out through work peers. Let him know why you think the other position would be a good match for your job skills, and an advancement for your career. Ask for his support. Boston.com recommends asking if he would be willing to even provide you with a professional reference.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have received positive performance evaluations, bring copies of those with you to the job interview. It will help illustrate the impact you have made at the company and will help show how much your work has improved over time.

References

• Boston.com: Apply for an Internal Job