Climbing the internal ladder: tips for a successful promotion interview

As you master the ins and outs of your job and become more proficient in executing your tasks, you want to move on to something that further challenges you and allows you to keep

learning. However, outgrowing your current job doesn’t always mean that you have outgrown your organisation. You may be happy with the company, but feel that it is time to progress, in terms of responsibility and/or financial rewards.

Pursuing an advancement opportunity with your current employer has many advantages for both them and you: on the one hand, the company is already aware of your abilities, skills and work ethic.

Having one foot already in the door, you are at an advantageous position. You are aware of the company culture, making it easier to acclimatise to a new role within it. Moreover, you might already have access to inside information about the position and its expectations, helping you enter the hiring process better prepared. Below are some things to keep in mind as an internal candidate.

Inform your manager

When applying for an internal position, it is best that your manager hear it from you rather that from HR, or someone else in the company. This will reinforce the trust and good rapport you have built over the years and might also be a great opportunity to gain more clarity on your strengths, weaknesses and long-term goals by discussing them with a qualified superior. What’s more, if you have kept up with the demands of your current job, your manager’s good word will weigh in your favour.

Treat the interview like any other

An internal interview is still an assessment of your ability to fill the role. Even if you know your interviewers, avoid being overly casual with them; keep your interaction pleasant but professional. Be on time, dress in an interview-appropriate way (even if the company vibe is more relaxed), and be prepared to talk about your skills and achievements without presupposing that your interviewers are familiar with your background.

Research the new role

As an internal candidate, you may have better access to key information. If possible, ask the person who is moving on from the role for their advice and what you should expect. Refamiliarise yourself with aspects of the company and its processes you might have become complacent about. Update yourself on the latest industry trends. Take the time to become proficient in new technologies in your field.

Perform a self-evaluation

Before moving on to a higher position, you must be very clear about your current strengths and achievements, as well as the areas you must focus and improve on. Be prepared to discuss not only the highlights of your performance so far, but also the actions you will take to step up your game.

Be ready to demonstrate why you are the person for the job

What can you bring to the table that an external candidate can’t? This is the main question your interviewers are seeking to answer throughout your meeting. Help them out by showcasing your knowledge, skills and lessons learned in your tenure so far while expressing your interest in the role and clearly communicating the value you will bring to the company in your new capacity.

Worried about your next performance evaluation at work? Read our article on Demystifying the work performance review.

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