Unlocking Your Potential: Why Internal Moves Can Propel Your Career Forward

Did you know that over 70% of employees prefer to advance their careers within

their current company? If you find yourself stuck in a role that doesn’t fulfil you,

you might be thinking about making a drastic change. However, before you jump

ship and change industries altogether, consider the immense potential of making

internal moves within your current organisation. In this blog post, we will explore

why transitioning to a new role internally can be not only more feasible but also

advantageous for your career development. We’ll look at how internal moves can

serve as a vital stepping stone to both leverage your existing skills and to open

doors to your dream job. Let's dive into the world of internal career advancement

and learn how it works.

Exploring Internal Moves: The Easier Path to Career Development

Navigating the job market can often feel like an exhausting cycle of rejection and

uncertainty. When considering career growth, many people instinctively turn to

external opportunities. Yet, internal transitions can serve as a viable alternative.

They require less adjustment and have the added benefit of familiarity with

company culture, workplace dynamics, and even the institutional values that

guide the organisation. Let’s break down the key reasons why focusing on internal

roles might be your best bet for career advancement.

1. Familiarity Breeds Confidence

When you attempt to change industries or companies, there's an inherent

learning curve that can feel daunting. In contrast, taking an internal role offers

you the comfort of a familiar environment, colleagues you know, and knowledge

of internal systems. This familiarity can serve as a powerful confidence booster,

allowing you to transfer your existing skills particularly if you’ve developed

relationships and networks within the organization. Overcoming challenges seems

less threatening when you're surrounded by an established support system.

2. Better Networking Opportunities

One of the most substantial advantages of an internal move is networking.

Relationships within your current organisation have likely been built over time,

which can grant you access to mentorship opportunities and an understanding of

how different teams function. When managing your career path, these internal

networks can also provide insights into upcoming openings that may not be

published externally. Your existing relationships can become your advocates,

recommending you for roles they know you’re fit for.

3. Demonstrated Commitment and Reliability

Companies value employees who exhibit loyalty and a desire to grow within the

organisation. When you make an internal transition, it shows that you are invested

in the company’s success while also remaining committed to your development.

Employers often feel more comfortable promoting someone they know, as they

have a track record of your work ethic and ability. Employees who move internally

tend to be promoted quicker than those who switch companies making it a win-

win situation.

4. Skill Development and Transfers

Career development often involves learning and skill enhancement. By

transitioning roles within your existing organisation, you can tap into a plethora of

resources, including training programs, mentorship and coaching opportunities,

and skill development workshops. Not only can you refine existing skills, but you

can also acquire new ones that will be relevant not only for your current role but

also for your future career trajectory. In fact, pivoting roles might become a

powerful catalyst for your career growth.

5. Increased Job Satisfaction

Feeling stuck in a monotonous routine can diminish job satisfaction. An internal

move can often rejuvenate that passion by exposing you to new challenges and

responsibilities. By stepping into a different department or role, you can

reinvigorate the job satisfaction that may have dwindled in your previous position.

With an increased sense of fulfilment, productivity and morale tend to rise.

6. Reducing Risks Associated with Career Changes

Switching industries often comes with plenty of risks. This involves not only a

change of environment but also adapting to potentially significant pay

differences, varying benefits, and sometimes a total culture shock. Internal moves,

conversely, do not carry that same level of unpredictability. The presence of a

safety net, a job you are currently performing adds an extra layer of security as

you explore new opportunities within your existing organisation.

7. Leverage Previous Experience and Skills as Your Launchpad

Using prior experience as leverage when moving into a new role is a significant

strategy. If you’ve gained expertise, credibility, and skills in your current position,

that foundation can set you up perfectly for an internal move, providing

something tangible to build upon.

Example from My Journey

In my own career, I wanted to transition into learning and development. To do this

effectively, I applied for an internal role that aligned closely with my existing skill

set. I was fortunate enough to have been given the opportunity, and years later

when I faced redundancy, the expertise I had cultivated in that internal role

helped me land a new position within four weeks. This experience not only

solidified my belief in the power of internal moves but also emphasised how

leveraging existing skills can add value to new roles.

8. The Stories of My Clients

A significant number of my clients have embraced the idea of internal moves,

resulting in significant career changes without the stress that often accompanies

external transitions. From lateral moves that provided new challenges to upward

transitions into roles of greater responsibility, these clients have found satisfaction

and growth by harnessing their organisational knowledge. They have proven that

internal moves are not just stepping stones; they are powerful vehicles for career

advancement.

9. Overall Productivity and Performance

Employees who pursue career growth through internal moves tend to perform

better. This increased productivity stems from the immediate sense of belonging,

enthusiasm brought on by new challenges, and the excitement of pursuing one’s

career path. As a result, businesses benefit greatly from having an employee who

is engaged and invested in their tasks, leading to growth, innovation, and overall

company success.

Making Internal Moves Work for You

Now that we’ve covered the immense benefits of internal moves, how do you go

about making this transition successfully?

Identify Your Career Goals

Before seeking a new role, take the time to outline your career aspirations. Identify

which skills you want to develop and the direction you’d like to go in your career.

This clarity will give you a target as you explore internal opportunities.

Research Available Positions

Keep an eye on any internal job postings or discuss potential opportunities with

your manager. Seek mentorship from someone in the

department you're interested in, and ask about the specific skills or experience

they seek in candidates.

Update Your CV and Prepare for Interviews

When targeting a specific internal role, ensure your CV reflects your

achievements, skills, and experiences relevant to that position. Prepare yourself

for the interview process by practicing responses and anticipating questions

based on your achievements within the organisation.

Follow Up and Engage

If you do not get the job, don’t lose heart or become discouraged. Silent reflection

won’t help you! Instead, follow up with your potential manager

to ask for feedback. Learn from each experience, and continue refining your

approach. Engage with your network and let them know you are open to

opportunities.

What Changes Can You Make at Home?

Making internal moves can reshape your career positively if you approach them

strategically. By capitalising on your existing skills, making connections, and

developing new capabilities, you position yourself uniquely in the company for a

promotion or new role. Remember, internal moves often serve as stepping stones

leading you closer to your ultimate career aspirations.

As you move forward, think about smaller, incremental changes. Perhaps it starts

with volunteering for projects aligned with your desired role, or asking for cross-

training opportunities. Stay persistent and be confident in your abilities. In most

cases, believing in your potential is half the battle.

So where do you go from here? Understanding the value of internal movements

can greatly accelerate your career growth.

Take the first step towards your next career move by booking a free clarity today!

Book your call here: https://calendly.com/salamacoaching/30mins

The key to career success is consistency in exploring yourself and pursuing your dreams without fear. Remember, every small effort can lead to significant outcomes.

Keep striving, keep evolving, and let your journey be guided by your experiences

and aspirations. The opportunities you seek may just be within your reach if you

look internally!