How to tell a manager you are interested in a position

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If your boss announces an open position in your department you believe you're qualified for, speak up before outside candidates are considered. Make sure you’re qualified for the role, and prepare to emphasize why you’d be a good fit for the new position without talking poorly about your existing job.

Ask for a Meeting

Request a private meeting with your boss. Ask about the qualifications for the position and outline how you would handle the role. Cite examples from your history with the company, emphasizing your achievements and experience, particularly as they relate to the duties of the new opening. The feedback you get from your boss will tell you how to proceed. If she feels you’re qualified, you may be asked to submit to a formal interview process, or you might be given the job on the spot. If she doesn't think you're qualified, ask what you can do to improve your skills and gain experience to be eligible for similar positions in the future.

Internal Interview

Internal candidates often have the edge when interviewing for in-house transfers or promotions because they’re familiar with the company and employees. Regardless, prepare for an internal interview the same way you would for an external one. Your boss and other decision-makers might not be familiar with the extent of your responsibilities, or the contributions you've made to the company. Update your resume and provide a detailed accounting of your skills and accomplishments in your current position. Learn as much as you can about the new job and its responsibilities so you can offer suggestions about how you'd tackle the position.

Your Boss’ Job

If your boss is leaving the company, and you feel you’re qualified for her position, talk to her about timing and the company’s plan to replace her. If you have a good working relationship and your boss respects your work, she’ll be a good advocate for you. If your boss hesitates, or indicates she doesn't believe you have the qualifications for her job, talk to a hiring manager, human resources representative or your boss’ superior about your interest. Write a proposal that details your skills and qualifications and outline your knowledge of your boss’ responsibilities.

If You're Rejected

Being rejected for an internal position or promotion can be disheartening, especially if someone outside the company is selected. Don't take the rejection too personally, and instead, focus on doing your current job to the best of your ability. Seek out a mentor to help develop long-term career goals, and ask your immediate supervisor if you can take on additional responsibilities to expand your skills and knowledge. If there’s a particular level in the company you want to reach, inquire about steps and experience necessary to set you on the path for eventual promotion.

References

Writer Bio

Lisa McQuerrey has been a business writer since 1987. In 1994, she launched a full-service marketing and communications firm. McQuerrey's work has garnered awards from the U.S. Small Business Administration, the International Association of Business Communicators and the Associated Press. She is also the author of several nonfiction trade publications, and, in 2012, had her first young-adult novel published by Glass Page Books.

Photo Credits

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The template below is an excerpt from Danny Rubin’s award-winning book, Wait, How Do I Write This Email?

If you want to capture the attention of a recruiter for a particular job, send a strong introductory email and make a great first impression.

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Subject line: Interested in the position of [job title} at [name of company]

Hi Mr./Ms. ______ [be formal with a recruiter],

I’m reaching out because I saw the posting for [job title] at [name of company]. After I researched the position and company, I feel I would be a great fit for the opportunity.

I believe I have the required skills and would mesh well with the culture at [name of company]. In particular, I like how the company [something notable from the website, news or a line from the mission statement; for instance, “believes in leveraging new technology to help people live healthier lives”].

[Then, give an example of why you have the proper skills and, if possible, why you’re a good cultural fit; for instance, “I’m proficient with JavaScript and HTML5, and I also have experience working with virtual teams, as I know that’s an important part of how the company operates.”]

NOTE: If the job description lists required skills and experience you don’t have, you will gain credibility by addressing them; for instance, “I noted the job description also requires experience implementing Acme’s Business Intelligence tool. While I do not have that direct experience, I was selected to lead the implementation of an enterprise-wide database and was able to keep the project on time and under budget.”

I have attached my resume to this email. I’d also be happy to provide a cover letter if additional information would be helpful. Finally, I’m open to your feedback on my candidacy and overall portfolio.

NOTE: Ask for feedback because it allows the recruiter to engage in a dialogue with you, which may help to build trust and deepen your relationship.

Thanks, and I hope to hear from you.

– Your first and last name

Email signature

Deeper Insight

With the introductory email to a recruiter, you need to explain why you’re not only technically skilled but also someone who would be a solid teammate. A recruiter needs a person who can operate on both levels. Also, ask for feedback and be appreciative whether it’s positive or negative.

If the position requires relocation, indicate what draws you to the city. Recruiters often pay more attention to candidates from out of state who have a connection to the job location (ex: family ties).

This article first appeared on Rubineducation.com.