Library Corner
The Internal Job Candidate—All Things Considered
Recently, I was involved in a library conference, for which I was approached about doing a workshop on initial job searching out of graduate school. During my group planning sessions for the workshop, there began a discussion about being an internal candidate for a position in an organization. Being an internal candidate presents advantages, disadvantages (yes, there are some) and opportunities to revisit what it is you really want in a career.
To Your Advantage
- You understand your institutional culture.
- You save your institution money in the hiring process.
- From an institutional perspective, you are a known, safe choice and can start the new job quickly.
- You have an existing support base in your institution.
To Your Disadvantage
- Because you are an existing employee, you may be held to a higher standard, and the selection process may be especially tough for you.
- Emotional turbulence. There is always the possibility of failure to attain the position, despite many years of dedicated work, and you may need to explain or address the fact that you were not selected for the job in the future.
- From an institutional perspective, you may cause a weakening of the candidate pool. Qualified external candidates may be discouraged from applying if they know an internal candidate is being considered.
- Also from an institutional perspective, the internal candidate carries his/her own organizational viewpoints and other baggage. Outsiders have a fresh perspective.
Tips
- Think about it; consider your needs first. Is this position really a good fit for you?
- Explore the possibility of spreading your wings; imagine yourself working in a number of different positions or for other organizations.
- Do some external interviewing for practice, exploration and insurance. Your company needs to know you have the option of leaving.
- Revitalize and update that résumé.
- Use the internal candidate process as an opportunity to demonstrate your triumphs and present your vision for the future.
For more career insights and pointers…
…peruse the information-packed Career Development section of Jones e-global library, where you will find:
- recommended readings;
- how to get started in a job search;
- how to research an organization;
- Internet job databases;
- career skill advice, including interviewing, networking and salary negotiation techniques; and
- other career resources on such topics as résumé writing, self-assessment, salary surveys and relocation.
The Career Development database in e-global library is a tremendously helpful and wealthy compilation. Take advantage of it!
e-global library News:
On January 12, Jones International University migrated to a newer version of “Ask an Online Librarian.” This new version features secure and reliable connections (less dropped sessions) and a more intuitive interface. Please try it out the next time you have a question related to research or e-global library.
If you would like to know more about using the library’s resources, please contact me, Manuel Santos, at msantos@international.edu or 800.811.5663, x8256. I would be happy to answer your questions or give you a tour.