Think before You Seek an Internal Transfer

If you think you can’t go wrong in an organization where you’ve worked for a substantial amount of time, then you’ve got another thing coming! As you need to do as much homework for an internal transfer in a company, as you normally would while applying for a job in another organization. This is sad but true but you must find out about the boss. Most companies do not have one culture but a combination of different cultures. The sub-culture is often influenced by the person heading the specific department that you wish to join. In certain departments face-time may be essential. Which means for e.g., that you might like working in the HR department where you could leave for home on time after doing your bit for the day; but once you join a department like finance you might be expected to sit till late on an everyday basis. Know such fine point before you think about moving vertically. More than asking, getting a transfer is about a detailed research. Does the group where you want to work have an opening? And the important thing - do your skills complement the skills set required for the new job? Remember, a role change is not about escaping your current role but about growing in the organization. If you are struggling in your current role, you may find it tough in another role as well. So do detailed checks – and remember the grass is always green on the other side! Be clear why you want that particular role. Demonstrate how you have interacted with that department by outlining the challenges involved. Having a base with some prior training will earn you some extra brownie points. Convince your boss that your leaving will not hamper the process by handing over all your responsibilities. You need to be available to guide the new person managing your profile to make the handover smooth. The start of a new role will mean additional work and will also involve dividing time between the old and the new, to achieve a structured transition process. Be prepared for a slightly different culture and start afresh by being open with a willingness to learn. You will also have to give your 100% as you can’t afford to fail. Remember, you asked for the transfer and have to prove yourself all over again.

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