Internal Interviews

The easy way to get it right in internal interviews is to pretend they are external and act accordingly.

This chapter provides guidance on handling internal interviews, which can be tricky, especially when applying for a promotion or a role within a team you already know. The key advice is to treat the internal interview as seriously as if it were an external one. Even if your interviewer is someone you work closely with, it’s important to prepare thoroughly, demonstrating your ambition and enthusiasm for the job. Shyness in expressing your desire for the role can hurt your chances, especially when compared to external candidates who are often more confident in showing their passion. Preparing as if you’re an external candidate allows you to stand out by displaying your genuine interest and proactive approach.

The chapter emphasizes the importance of dressing professionally, specifically recommending wearing a suit to the interview. Even if your company has a casual dress code, wearing a suit signals that you are taking the process seriously and that you respect the importance of the opportunity. Wearing a suit also helps you step into a more professional mindset, which may differ from the casual demeanor you typically have with colleagues. In addition, it’s better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed, as you never know how your interviewer might choose to present themselves.

Another key piece of advice is to answer questions as if the interviewer knows nothing about you. While it might seem obvious that they’re familiar with your work, HR often instructs interviewers to base their decisions only on the information gathered during the interview. By treating the interview as if you’re a completely new candidate, you ensure you present yourself fully, without assuming the interviewer is aware of your past contributions or achievements. This approach helps you avoid missing the chance to truly showcase your qualifications and suitability for the new role.

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