Understanding internal recruitment
Internal recruitment leverages existing talent to fill vacancies. Instead of looking outside, organisations first consider whether current employees could take on new roles. This creates advancement opportunities, retains institutional knowledge, and often results in faster, more successful placements.
Internal recruitment
- Promotions
- Lateral transfers
- Department changes
- Role expansions
vs External
- Lower cost
- Faster filling
- Known performance
- Shorter onboarding
Benefits of internal recruitment
Internal recruitment offers advantages for both organisations and employees:
Key benefits
Internal recruitment process
- Post internally: Use internal job postings
- Screen applications: Review internal candidates
- Interview: Formal process even for known candidates
- Select: Make decision based on merit
- Transition: Plan handover and backfill
Don't skip the process
Internal candidates deserve a proper recruitment process. Informal appointments or "tap on the shoulder" approaches create perceptions of favouritism and may miss better candidates. Follow your standard process.
Internal recruitment best practices
Process practices
- Post roles on internal job board
- Clear application process
- Fair interview process
- Transparent decision criteria
People practices
- Encourage applications
- Support current managers
- Provide feedback to all
- Plan transitions carefully
Common internal recruitment mistakes
Manager blocking
Managers who prevent good people from moving internally. This damages careers and drives talent away. Create policies that support internal mobility and don't let managers hoard talent.
Poor feedback for unsuccessful candidates
When internal candidates are rejected without proper feedback, it damages trust and engagement. Provide constructive feedback and discuss development opportunities.
Forgetting about backfill
Moving someone internally creates a vacancy that needs filling. Plan for backfill as part of the internal recruitment process - it's not complete until all roles are covered.
Key takeaways
Internal recruitment is a cost-effective way to fill roles while developing employees and retaining knowledge. Use fair, transparent processes and provide feedback to all candidates. Don't forget to plan for backfills.
RosterElf's staff management helps Australian businesses manage team transitions alongside efficient rostering and scheduling.
