Are companies required to post positions internally as well as externally? Ask HR

Johnny C. Taylor Jr. tackles your human resources questions as part of a series for USA TODAY. Taylor is president and CEO of the Society for Human Resource Management, the world's largest HR professional society and author of "Reset: A Leader’s Guide to Work in an Age of Upheaval.”

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Question: I noticed my employer posted a notice for a job at our company on an external job board. It is a position I am qualified for and very interested in. However, they did not post the job on our internal board. Are companies required to post positions internally as well as externally? Should I apply on the external board? – TC

Answer: Understandably, seeing a job posting for a position you're qualified and interested in, but only externally, might raise questions. Companies vary in their posting practices, and while some are required to post jobs internally, others do so voluntarily to provide growth opportunities for current staff.

Federal contractors and companies governed by collective bargaining agreements are among those required to post jobs internally. However, many companies, even if not legally obligated, choose to post internally to foster employee development and advancement.

Given that the job was not posted internally, I recommend taking proactive steps to express your interest. Schedule a meeting with your supervisor to discuss the external posting and communicate your desire to be considered for the position. Update your resume and prepare talking points highlighting why you are well-suited for the role.

If your supervisor indicates a preference for hiring externally, don't be discouraged. Employers sometimes bring in external candidates for fresh perspectives and ideas. This doesn't necessarily mean there won't be future opportunities for internal promotions.

Use this conversation as an opportunity to discuss your career goals, development needs, and interest in future roles within the company. While these discussions often happen during formal performance reviews, initiating regular, informal conversations about your growth and development can be beneficial. Managers typically welcome these dialogues, and it can be done during check-in meetings or other informal settings.

By expressing your interest and initiating a conversation about your professional goals, you and your supervisor can work collaboratively toward mapping out an intentional pathway for your future success within the organization. This proactive approach demonstrates your commitment to your professional growth and may open doors to future opportunities, even if the current position is not the optimal fit. Best of luck in pursuing this potential opportunity!

I worked as a mechanical engineer for 14 years. I was recently approached by management for a finance role. They are looking for someone with engineering and project management expertise who can understand the complexity of accounting and planning for this manufacturing business. While I am excited about the new opportunity, I am concerned that taking this role could sidetrack my engineering career. How can I best prepare to make this a successful transition? – Maurmee

I appreciate your thoughtful consideration of the potential transition from a mechanical engineering role to a finance position. While it's indeed a significant shift, it's also essential to recognize that careers aren't always linear. Embracing new opportunities aligned with your skills and interests can lead to a fulfilling and diverse professional journey.

To ensure a successful transition, consider:

◾ Exploring job descriptions: Review different finance positions and related job descriptions to understand the tasks involved. Identify areas where your engineering and planning expertise align with finance responsibilities. You may discover your skills are congruent with the demands of the new role.

◾ Reskilling opportunities: Inquire about the support the company offers for reskilling. Look for opportunities to earn certifications or credentials to enhance your financial acumen. This investment in additional skills will not only benefit your current role but also set you up for success in the finance position.

◾ The career path: Gain clarity on the career path within the finance team. Understanding the trajectory of the role can help you set realistic expectations and plan for your long-term professional development.

◾ Shadowing: Consider shadowing someone in the finance role to get firsthand experience and insights. This will provide you with a practical understanding of the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges associated with the position.

◾ Inventory transferable skills: Take stock of your transferable skills that apply to the finance role. Engineering skills often involve analytical thinking, problem-solving, and strategic planning, which are valuable in a finance context.

◾ Seeking advice from contacts: Reach out to individuals in your professional network who have experience in finance or have made similar career transitions. Gather insights about their experiences, likes, and dislikes. Poll their advice to gain a deeper understanding of what you could expect in the new role.

◾ Your "why": Understand your core reasons for venturing into the finance field. Clearly articulate the alignment between who you are and the fundamentals of the role. Ensure your motivation goes beyond external suggestions, and that you have a genuine interest in the work.

Approaching this transition with curiosity, flexibility, and a clear sense of purpose will contribute to a successful shift in your career. Remember, each step you take is a valuable part of your professional journey, and embracing new challenges can lead to unexpected growth and fulfillment. I hope you find the career choice that works best for you!