Why do organizations consider an internal worker’s even if the internal guy didn’t perform well in the interview?

8 Comments

1. Kimberly WhiteOctober 8,2021 at 2:36PM UTC

   First, I'm not sure how you would know how well you performed in comparison to other candidates or how you would know if you are more intelligent than managers you presumably only met at the interview. These statements are presumtuous and unbecoming at best and are hopefully just being stated out of frustration with the job search. However, if you are conveying any of this attitude in an interview, it would not bode well for you.

   Assuming that is the case, we can move on to the other factors you bring up. Because employers already know internal candidates, how they work, how they fit in with the rest of the team, etc, it can be less risky to hire from within. Management may even already have in mind a person they think would be a great fit because they've worked with them in the past in another capacity.

   Overqualification can also be a red flag when hiring. When hiring someone who is clearly more qualified than what the position calls for, HR or management may fear that the person is just looking for a short-term solution while they look for a "better" job. Some of these candidates would be weeded out before it even got to the interview process. So if you are overqualified and have made it to the interview, be sure that you communicate why you would be looking for a job you are overqualified for instead of one more in line with your talent. You need to clearly convey why you want the job and what makes you the ideal candidate. You can't just rest on your resume here.

   Best of luck in your job search!

2. Suleiman IssackOctober 9,2021 at 12:09PM UTC

   A close friend who we worked together previously and who knows my ability asked the recruiting manager how I have performed? . "He performed so well but he’s not lucky, an internal candidates whose project ended a year ago and currently attached to the another program maybe given that chance. It’s not his work performance that was considered but the job security that the organization offers. Mostly weren’t happy seeing me doing the interview. Fearing the kind of talent and changes I’ll come with. I always uphold integrity with or without being monitored. In Africa thing are different even Project Document aren’t shared with staffs. Some years back I joined an organization then realized M&E Officer doesn’t know how to write minute and report. Mangers don’t like intelligent people who’ll replace him/her.

3. AnonymousOctober 8,2021 at 3:45PM UTC

   Internal candidates sometimes have an advantage because the organization knows their work history and their ability. Also, sadly, they may be able to promote internally for less money than they would have to pay an external hire. And many companies think it looks good for them to promote internally because it shows the company supports employees’ growth.

4. Suleiman IssackOctober 9,2021 at 12:27PM UTC

   I do agree with you but in our context it is different. Loyalty and accepting being a bootlicker is the only way you’ll be accepted.

5. AnonymousOctober 10,2021 at 4:44AM UTC

   Loyalty is still important to some employers - and some employees. Frankly I would rather work for an employer who values internal candidates and provides job security when possible. But I work in a different economy than you.

   This employer is clearly not for you as you don’t agree with how they do business. You sound angry and, from other comments, you have a high confidence in yourself. Look elsewhere for work that aligns more closely to your values. Perhaps your own business or consultancy would be better suited for you.

6. Lesa Edwards, Career Coach & Master Resume WriterOctober 8,2021 at 5:54PM UTC

   Suleiman,

   Internal candidates are typically judged less on their interviews and more on their track record with the company.

7. Suleiman IssackOctober 9,2021 at 12:20PM UTC

   I do agree with you they’re judged less but not on their track record with Organisation but the loyalty and long term relationship. Fearing the new person and the kind of changes he may bring.

8. AnonymousOctober 8,2021 at 6:04PM UTC

   Internal candidates have long term relationships within the organization and history to fall back on. The organization might pride itself on promoting from within and have strong career development values that would favor an internal candidate.