You like your manager. You like your team. The last thing that you want is to appear disloyal. It's a great organisation and you don't want to cause any disruption by expressing an interest in a role that's just been advertised on the intranet. What do you do? Here's a few ideas:
1. Understand that it's OK to think about other opportunities. People do this all the time. It doesn't mean that you're unhappy or don't like your manager or team. It means that you have an open mind to new opportunities.
2. Obtain more information about the advertised role. Talk with trusted colleagues. What does the role involve? What skills are required? Who does it report to? What are they like? What's the team like? Why is the role vacant?
"Obtain more information about the advertised role. Talk with trusted colleagues"
3. Determine if you have the skills needed for the new role. How would your application stand versus other applicants? Do you know of stronger candidates?
If so, why do you think they may be stronger?
What can you offer to make you stand out and be a stronger candidate?
"What can you offer to make you stand out and be a stronger candidate?"
4. Find out if other employees have moved into new internal roles. What has the process been? Assess the organisational culture for transparency - should you be open about your intentions?
5. Consider a discussion with your manager. Seek their opinion regarding career development in the organisation. What is their advice to you? Outline your goals and the skills you would like to develop. The other role may be an ideal move for you. Equally, your current manager may be able to provide comparable opportunities.
"Consider a discussion with your manager. Seek their opinion regarding career development in the organisation"
6. Seek the advice of a specialised Recruitment Consultant. They will know the market and will be able to offer advice, depending on what you are trying to achieve.
Applying for an internal role is exciting. Equally it has its challenges. Do your research, ask the questions and take advice.