Announcing Lateral Moves
I submitted an internal application for a technical support representative in another division of the company I work for. It’s basically just a lateral move from the customer service position I have now to the tech support division where I always wanted to work but I had to wait a year after my start date before I could apply. I haven’t told anybody at work that I applied yet but do you think I should have let my manager know ahead of time? I figured he’s going to find out eventually when they contact him to check on my performance but I don’t want him to get blindsided with the news. An internal career change should be perceived as a good thing by management right?
It is proper work etiquette to let your manager know when you are applying for an internal position.
Depending on your supervisor, it may already be too late. He may be cool with it, or he may be disappointed that as one of his "people" you didn't let him know your plans and allow him to be part of the process. It shouldn't make a difference, but it could skew the level of enthusiasm of his reference. It's never good for a manager to be blindsided with any news about one of their employees. He might have helped you in the internal maneuvers.
Usually if someone is making a lateral move within a company then they'll probably want a reference from your supervisor. On yes, an internal career change is DEFINITELY A GOOD THING! Some companies like Booz, Allen, EDS, and others offer a duel career (technical and non-technical) tracks and they usually assign you to a career mentor.
To Alvin Burns point, "control of the department" would include the type of communications that exist and supported at the company - AND - employee retention/hiring. Oftentimes, "an open door" policy is promoted at many companies. This is corroborated by your personal experience: have you ever taken advantage of this policy and was it a successful experience? If so, absolutely. If not, any reticence you have is understandable. If you feel you have a trustworthy relationship with your manager who will support your career move, a one on one talk about the move is paramount. It's a win-win that supports planning for both of you. If your manager believes strongly in your candidacy, he/she may be instrumental in your selection; thereby, can also prepare for backfilling your current position. Hope this helps.
Hi Marc, It doesn’t hurt to tell your department leadership about the application you submitted. Talk to your boss about your career goals and decision to make the move. I believe he/she will be supportive.
Management doesn’t like surprises because it makes them look like they're not in control of the department. Send over a quick email in the morning.
Yes, let your manager know that you applied not only to be informed about your career interest but also to be prepared when asked about your performance.
Marc, I don't know your relationship with your manager but I do know how my company works. When posting for a lateral move the candidate app is cc'd to their manager/department lead. It is known by both the candidate and their supervisor that the first point of reference contact will be the candidate's supervisor. A good supervisor will both encourage the candidate and assist in the application process. A very good supervisor will actually slot some time with the candidate to go over interview procedures and a great supervisor will sit down one on one with the candidate for a mock interview. It's not a bad thing and there is no shame in accepting help. I wish you well.