Navigating internal applications when in a toxic department?

Anonymous

December 21,2023 at 9:34PM UTC

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Navigating internal applications when in a toxic department? I have been applying to internal positions at my company for the past 2 months. A recruiter finally reached out to me today regarding a position I applied to this week for a phone screen. He said he'd pass my resume to the hiring manager for a formal interview. Problem is, I haven't notified my current manager that I applied. Long story short, the position I am in now is not originally the position I was hired for. They essentially pulled a bait and switch by changing my job duties/description shortly after I was hired. I have been very upfront with all 3 managers (yes 3!!!) that I would like to do something else. First manager was very dismissive and upset i pointed out the bait and switch. He was laid off over the summer. The next manager got extremely upset and pretty much implied I should be grateful to not have been laid off and that if I didn't like my job, to quit. Newest manager has been okay and knows I would like to do something else but essentially due to the reorg that followed the layoffs, said there isn't much she can do. So I'm a bit nervous about letting her know I applied elsewhere for fear of being let go if I don't move forward in the hiring process. Any tips or ideas on how I should approach this?

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Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistDecember 22,2023 at 12:18AM UTC
The first thing I would do is check your Employee Handbook to see if your company has a policy around this.
At my company, candidates must inform their manager they've applied to an internal position before they have their first interview. They click a box when filling out the internal application agreeing to this.
I would consider waiting until you hear if they want to interview you and then let your manager know you've applied.
I, personally, have not heard of an employee being fired for applying for another position within the company although since there are so many really bad managers out there, I supposed it's happened to someone. Most companies would rather keep your talent with the company than have you leave.
GOOD LUCK!!!!
AnonymousDecember 23,2023 at 4:21PM UTC
This firm is definitely toxic. Not only did they bait and switch you but they've gone through managers as well. Work with the recruiter to get you OUT of there. It's not going to get better.
Lorraine WaltersDecember 23,2023 at 8:21PM UTC
Agreed. Good advice.
AnonymousDecember 27,2023 at 1:53PM UTC
Note to this poster and another reply above: recruiters work for the company which is looking to FILL positions. They don't work for candidates looking for a job outside that company. Having said that, find outside recruiting firms/agencies, preferably ones that focus on your industry or functional area. They're more likely to be looking for candidates with your background. Good luck!
AnonymousDecember 26,2023 at 4:02PM UTC
Not quite the answer you are asking for, but I want to suggest a broader approach: Let's say you get the role you're looking for, no consequences or drama.
Do you trust the company to do the other stuff right as you continue your tenure there, like investing in you, hiring competent leaders, paying you competitively year to year, etc.?
Rosa GoesDecember 26,2023 at 7:00PM UTC
Since you were upfront with the managers, it shouldn't be a surprise. So I recommend being upfront that you applied internally. However it might be best to have a backup plan. Call another recruiter to help you find opportunities with other companies. Good luck to you!
AnonymousDecember 27,2023 at 1:09PM UTC
At the company I work for they automatically notify your manager if you apply internally, so they do recommend speaking to them first.
Jessica FerlandDecember 27,2023 at 2:55PM UTC
I've worked at companies where the expectation was that you would grow internally. Also worked in a culture where it was required to speak with your manager before applying to other jobs internally. Both gave me good practice in this awkward situation.
That said, is this a company you want to stay with in the long term? It sounds like maybe a fresh start could be great for you.
Cindy Elizabeth Chavarria MineraDecember 27,2023 at 5:33PM UTC
Seems like a toxic company all together. I would apply outside the company.
AnonymousDecember 27,2023 at 5:59PM UTC
Try speaking with your manager to explain that although you are aware your position remains for now, the fact that layoffs have been occurring, makes you worry. Since this is a new role, and tou still want to work in the company, this makes tou believe that there's no possibility of having that position you are applying for to be part of a new round of layoffs.
Tell her that you are interested in those functions without getting back to your discussions about disliking your current role.
Sometimes we overthink, and at the end it's simpler than what we have thought.
Good luck!
AnonymousJanuary 1,2024 at 3:54PM UTC
I work for a large global corporation. I never tell my manager if/when I'm looking for or applying to internal positions if I'm ok staying where I am. My manager finds out I've accepted a new position AFTER I've accepted it. Then I work with the current/new managers on a transition plan and timing. No need to have a manager constantly worried about whether they can depend on you or that you may leave them.
On the other hand, if I'm truly not happy or want to grow to another position, I will let my manager know so they can help me find the best role for me. It's in companies' best interest to help their employees grow. A good leader will support you in your career growth.