The job I want is opening up in a few months...

Anonymous

December 1,2023 at 4:39PM UTC

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The job I want is opening up in a few months...

and I think I'm mostly qualified for it but will need to convince management to give me a chance. The person in that role is most likely moving on to another office and I think I have most of the basic skills and education required; I'll just need a few months of training or shadowing others in a similar role. What is the most tactful way to let my manager know I'd like to move into the role? I think the person in it will probably announce their departure after the New Year.

On a side note, I do foresee the role I'm currently in being phased out due to a section merger. I probably have about a year left until I'm told I'll need to start looking around, or until I'm assigned to something new I may or may not like-- I'm guessing a lateral role I'll have to fight my way out of. I do think my managers would like to keep me on their team. Again, I may need to convince them I'm the right person for the job.

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AnonymousDecember 1,2023 at 9:14PM UTC
Does your supervisor understand that you would like a role with more responsibility? Now is the perfect time if you haven't had that conversation with them. If they don't know, they won't consider you, as nothing is "handed" to you [usually],
Cindy AllenDecember 2,2023 at 2:23PM UTC
Get some time on their calendar and straight out tell them you are interested in this possible opportunity. Outline briefly why you think that. Focus only on the positives in the conversation. (Resist the temptation to bring up what else you think you might need to be successful.) Ask them for honest feedback on what you can do to be a successful candidate for the role. Then listen, take notes, and try to do all the things they outline. It lets the manager know you are interested, you can gauge the reaction to this and usually get a feel if they think you can fill the role, and you have tips on how to get it. Win win.
Kate HopkinsDecember 2,2023 at 3:17PM UTC
Have the conversation to put your hat in the ring asap. If you convey your enthusiasm and what you bring to the table, I find that smart managers are usually eager to promote from within. And drop the assumption that you'll need a few months of training or shadowing to do this new position. You don't need to know every aspect of the job before jumping in. If you approach the work with confidence and ask questions, you'll do great.
AnonymousDecember 3,2023 at 3:29PM UTC
Dont make your supervisor read your mind or play guessing games. As others have suggested, get time on their calendar and make your case! Try to find the job description and layout how your skills match the job requirements. Ask for a development plan to make yourself a top candidate: inquire about any networking or upskilling to be most competitive. Best of luck!