Internal or open: why it matters

Picture two postings for the same job title at the same city. One is open to anyone. The other is open only to people who already work there. They can look almost identical, but they’re not the same process, and the people competing for each are not the same group. Understanding the difference helps you apply smarter, whether you’re already inside local government or trying to get in.

Internal recruitments

An internal recruitment is limited to current employees of the organization. Organizations typically use one when they’ve decided they have enough qualified people in house to run a competitive process, and that those people have the skills the position and the hiring department need. If you’re applying from outside the organization, an internal-only posting isn’t open to you, so check before you invest time in an application.

Because the pool is smaller, the process is often more condensed. But don’t let that change how you prepare. The panel interview and selection interview are still likely to be used, and you should treat them seriously, because you’re competing against other people who also know the organization.

What the panel is looking for

When everyone is already known to the organization, the panel looks for who is prepared and who has already demonstrated the qualities the new position needs in their current role. A few things matter more than people expect:

• Commitment to the organization and its values.

• Understanding that the new position will require a different version of yourself. The expectations, relationships, and responsibilities change.

• Respect for department culture. Cultures vary from one department to another, and you need to understand them and adapt to them.

Respect the process

One more thing for internal recruitments: respect confidentiality. Don’t participate in the gossip about who has applied or who is moving from round to round. It isn’t becoming, and it isn’t the behavior of a leader. How you handle the process is part of how people decide whether you’re ready for the next role.

Open recruitments

An open recruitment (also called an external recruitment) is open to any applicant, regardless of where they currently work. These processes may include testing or other screening steps to narrow the pool before the panel interview, so plan for the extra time.

How to tell which one you’re looking at

Check the posting for language about who may apply. If it isn’t clear, ask the HR contact listed on the posting before you invest time in an application.

The bottom line

Whichever kind of recruitment it is, prepare the same way: tailor your profile, research the role and department, and practice your answers. A shorter process isn’t a reason to prepare less.

Insider tip: However the process goes, how you carry yourself is part of your reputation. Be professional, be discreet, and be the person others would want to work with.

Want new issues first? Subscribe for free below.