What is a Internal job posting?

Q: How long should internal job postings be open?

Internal postings typically remain open for 5-10 business days, giving employees reasonable time to consider and apply. Posting for less than a week may disadvantage employees on leave or those needing to think carefully about the opportunity.

Q: Should all jobs be posted internally first?

Many organisations use an "internal first" policy, but it's not always appropriate. Senior leadership roles may benefit from external searches, and some specialist skills may not exist internally. Define when internal-first applies in your transfer policy .

Q: How should internal postings differ from external job ads?

Internal postings can be more direct about challenges and expectations since employees know the company. They should include: internal eligibility requirements, development opportunity aspects, and any changes from external postings (like adjusted requirements for internal candidates).

Q: Can external and internal postings run simultaneously?

Yes, many organisations post internally and externally at the same time to build the widest candidate pool. However, clear communication about the process is important so internal candidates don't feel disadvantaged.

Q: How do you handle confidential job postings internally?

Some positions (like replacing an underperformer) require discretion. Options include: limited internal distribution, posting after the current incumbent is informed, or external-only recruitment in sensitive situations.

Updated 27 Jan 2026 • 5 min read

An internal job posting is an advertisement for an open position shared with existing employees before or instead of external advertising. It gives current staff the first opportunity to apply for vacancies, supporting career development and internal mobility while often reducing hiring costs and time.

Understanding internal job postings

Internal job postings communicate opportunities to existing employees. They're a key tool for internal recruitment, giving staff visibility into openings and the chance to advance their careers without leaving the organisation.

Posting channels

Internal job board
Company intranet
Email announcements
Team meetings

Posting benefits

Show career opportunities
Reduce external recruiting
Faster filling
Better retention

What to include

Effective internal job postings contain:

Posting elements

Job title: Role name and level

Department: Team and location

Responsibilities: Key duties

Requirements: Skills and experience

Eligibility: Internal requirements

Application: How and when to apply

Internal posting process

Approval: Confirm job requisition is approved
Write posting: Create clear, appealing description
Distribute: Post on internal job board
Allow time: Keep open for minimum period
Review: Assess internal applicants fairly

Write for internal candidates

Internal candidates know your company, so you can be more direct. Highlight what makes the role a good development opportunity, be honest about challenges, and specify any differences in requirements for internal vs external candidates.

Internal posting best practices

Content

Clear job description
Realistic requirements
Eligibility criteria
Application instructions

Process

Adequate posting time
Multiple communication channels
Fair review process
Feedback to all applicants

Common posting mistakes

Too short posting period

Posting for only a few days disadvantages employees who are on leave, travelling, or need time to consider. Allow at least 5 business days, preferably 10.

Hidden postings

If employees don't know about opportunities, they can't apply. Use multiple channels and ensure postings reach all eligible employees, including remote staff.

Pre-determined outcomes

Posting roles when someone has already been selected undermines trust. If a decision is made, don't pretend there's an open competition.

Key takeaways

Internal job postings are essential for employee development and retention. Write clear postings, give adequate time for applications, use multiple channels, and ensure a fair selection process. Provide feedback to all internal applicants.

RosterElf's staff management helps Australian businesses manage growing teams with efficient rostering and employee management tools.

Frequently asked questions

How long should internal job postings be open?

Should all jobs be posted internally first?

How should internal postings differ from external job ads?

Can external and internal postings run simultaneously?

How do you handle confidential job postings internally?

Written by

RosterElf Team

The RosterElf team comprises workforce management specialists with deep expertise in Australian employment law, rostering best practices, and payroll compliance. Our team works directly with businesses across hospitality, healthcare, retail, and service industries to develop practical solutions for common workforce challenges.

How to implement in RosterElf

Step-by-step guides to set this up

setup

How to enable and use chat in RosterElf

Share internal job postings through RosterElf chat channels.

setup

Introduction to positions

Create positions for internal job postings.

Related resources

Explore more guides and definitions

Staff management software Employee management features Leave management software Time and attendance tracking Internal job board Internal recruitment Internal transfer policy Job requisition

General information only – not legal advice

This glossary article about internal job posting provides general information about Australian employment law and workplace practices. It does not constitute legal, HR, or professional advice and should not be relied on as a substitute for advice specific to your business, workforce, or circumstances.

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