- Career Advice
- Career Change
- What to do if you want to transfer jobs within the same company?
What to do if you want to transfer jobs within the same company?
Artwork by: Polina Shpak
- Should I transfer jobs within the same company?
- How long has it been since your last promotion?
- What is your long-term plan?
- Will the new position get you closer to your career goals?
- How to transfer jobs within the same company
- 1. Research company policy on internal transfers
- 2. Review internal job boards and the company website
- 3. Conduct some networking activities
- 4. Communicate with your boss
- 5. Send your internal application
- Example letter for requesting a transfer with the same company
- What if my boss doesn't support my internal transfer?
- Key takeaways
It can be easier to transfer your job within the same company than seek new external opportunities. But, when should you transfer? And, how do you go about it? We’ll cover everything you need to know about internal transfers, including tips and examples to help you get started.
Looking for a new job can be a challenging task. If you’re frustrated or bored with your current job, then another option is to look for a different role within your existing company. This process can be way less stressful and a lot easier than completely changing companies.
However, navigating this process may not be all kittens and roses. You may be wondering whether your boss will support your move to another department, how your existing co-workers will react, and whether you’ll actually prefer your new internal job.
In this article, we’ll cover:
Should I transfer jobs within the same company?
How to transfer jobs within the same company
Example of an internal transfer request letter
What to do if your boss doesn’t support a transfer
Statistical Insight
According to a Forbes article, 49.5 percent of U.S. employers plan to hire from within or promote current employees to fill roles. Employers recognized the value of internal transfers in terms of saving time and money, as well as addressing talent shortages.
Should I transfer jobs within the same company?
Timing is everything. If you’re wondering whether it’s the right timing for you to transfer jobs within the same company, conduct some self-reflection before making any moves.
Here’s three questions to consider:
How long has it been since your last promotion?
If your company is investing in your career development and you’re getting promoted every few years, then you may want to continue down that path. On the other hand, if it’s been several years and you aren’t progressing, then it may be time to look elsewhere. Don’t just settle for lateral moves that don’t fit your career development expectations.
What is your long-term plan?
You may not plan to stay with the company for more than a few years, in which case, a transfer may be a bad idea. Liking your manager and coworkers is important, but it’s not a good enough reason to stay if you’re not growing in your career. However, if the company culture works for you, and you think another area or location will better develop your career, then an internal move will allow you to keep all the good things you have now and still try something new.
Will the new position get you closer to your career goals?
A promotion is great, but if it is just a title and more money, that may not really move you toward your career goals. Think about what you want from your career. What makes you happy? Stay the course and keep working your way towards that. Otherwise, look for something more.
Expert Tip
Treat an internal interview exactly the same as an external interview. Prepare and practice interview questions you may be asked. Ask plenty of questions about the job, any challenges, and performance expectations. Don’t assume you're a shoe-in for the role as you never know who you may be up against.
How to transfer jobs within the same company
Whether you’re looking to move to a new city, switch departments, or work in a different role, the opportunities could be out there. Here’s how to navigate an internal transfer the right way:
1. Research company policy on internal transfers
Most companies have policies and procedures concerning internal transfers, so check with your HR team to find out exactly how this works. For example, you may need to be in the role for at least 18 months and have achieved certain performance ratings before you can request a transfer. There is also likely to be a specific process that you need to follow when applying for internal jobs, so have this information before you see an exciting internal role.
2. Review internal job boards and the company website
To locate good opportunities within your company, regularly check internal job boards and the company website to see what’s available. There may also be email circulars that you can sign up for that provide notifications of new opportunities. In smaller organizations, you may have to rely on word of mouth, so always keep your eyes and ears open.
3. Conduct some networking activities
While you don’t want to tell your target department that you hope to join their team, some internal networking is never a bad thing. Attending company networking events, contributing to cross-functional projects, and pursuing professional development opportunities are all ways to build your internal network.
These approaches are likely to expose you to people who work in the area you’re looking to transfer to and who can give you a better idea of what you would be getting into. It’s also a good opportunity to establish good relationships if transferring jobs within the same company is a success.
- Treat the internal hiring process the same as if you were applying as an external candidate. This will project your professionalism to your new boss.
- Burn bridges. Even if you’re set on a transfer, continue to perform well and stay positive in your current job to maintain your strong reputation.
4. Communicate with your boss
While it may seem like a conversation you’d rather avoid, speak to your manager about your desire to try something new. You don’t want them to think you’re going behind their back. They will eventually find out about your request to transfer, so it’s better to learn this from you.
Frame your conversation in a positive way. Thank your manager for their support, explain how much you have grown in your role, so much so that you now feel ready for a new challenge. Being upfront and positive are key to managing this conversation the right way, ensuring your transfer gets the seal of approval and a great reference.
5. Send your internal application
Follow whatever process your boss and HR recommends. There will probably be a protocol for applying for open positions within the company, and this may be similar to the external application process. You’ll still have to interview and go through a hiring process, but internal candidates usually get some preferential treatment and a streamlined process.
Example letter for requesting a transfer with the same company
Creating a professional letter for your transfer will improve your chances of getting it approved. When writing your letter, include your reasons for wanting a transfer, your background with the company, details about your transfer request, and why you think your transfer will benefit the organization.
Here’s an example of an internal transfer request letter that you can adapt:
[Your first and last name] [Address] [City], [State] [Zip code] [Phone number] [Email address]
[Date]
[First and last name of recipient] [Job title] [Company name] [Company street address] [City], [State] [Zip code]
Dear [Mr., Miss, Ms. or Mrs., and the recipient's last name],
I am writing to request consideration for a transfer from [Current Position & Team] at [Company Name] to [Future Role] at the [Team / New Office Location]. I would like to transfer positions due to [Enter reasons for requesting a transfer].
My time with [Current Team] has been thoroughly enjoyable, and I greatly appreciate everything I've learned in my current role. I am confident my management, communication, and technical skills would be fully utilized at the [New Location] office. Not only will I make a positive contribution to that team, but I am also excited about the tremendous growth opportunities available as a [Future Role].
I've enjoyed and benefited greatly from working with everyone at the [Current Location], and I hope to continue to grow within [Company Name]. Please find a copy of my updated resume for your review. If you need any additional information, please feel free to contact me.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
What if my boss doesn't support my internal transfer?
If your boss is not supportive of you applying for another job internally, this can be extremely disappointing. However, it’s important to take a step back and ask the specific reasons that they are not giving you the go-ahead. Your manager may explain that they believe you need to enhance specific soft skills or expertise before making this move, which is something you can work on with their support.
On the flip side, if you’re hearing reasons like you’re too valuable to the department or you’ve filled skill gaps and are still getting blocked, then take action. Contacting another manager or HR representative who can advocate for you is the best way to overcome these issues. After all, the company may lose you if you feel career progression was thwarted.
Looking to accelerate your career? Check out our Pathway to Promotion tool with expert insights, video introductions, and practical resources to get started.
Key takeaways
Make sure a transfer is the right move for you before starting the process. Consider your existing role as well as long-term plans and career goals.
Research the process for an internal transfer, build connections via internal networking, and be transparent with your current boss once you’ve decided to make the move.
Don’t be deterred if your existing boss isn’t supportive of your transfer. This may be due to skill gaps that can be addressed or an advocate may be needed to help you move forward. If all else fails, you can always look for a new job!
