Internal Job Application Preparation

Submitted by Joe Nichols
in
Career Management
BLUF: Is using company specific language a mistake when preparing a resume for an internal job application? Any other hints on do(s) and don't(s) for an internal job app? I'm in the process of preparing for an internal job posting. I'm certain that the basic resume and interview preparation is near exactly as described in the interview series (including the CLOSE... I can't wait!!!). I do have a question about language to use on the resume. I currently have my resume set up using very company specific language. Doing so saves space because very few words to describe an accomplishment that might take much more if communicating with someone outside the company. Is this a mistake? Any other advice on preparing for an internal job application? Thank Joe
Submitted by John Hack on Monday February 23rd, 2009 6:48 am

I have no experience in this matter. I would limit my use of company jargon. Demonstrate a broader vision for the role, and you can use jargon in the interview (if you think it makes sense).

John

Submitted by Inactive Membe… on Monday February 23rd, 2009 7:50 am

You have the great advantage of knowing a lot about the role you're applying for.

So edit your resume with that role in mind, using company or industry jargon as appropriate to the job, and to the people who will be reviewing your resume.

This may be the only time you use this version of your resume, so don't worry about trying to make it "fit" outside jobs.

When you think you have a good draft, do these two steps:

*Read it yourself, putting yourself in the place of the people who you think will read it. Are you SURE that every abbreviation will make sense to them?

*Have somebody else review it. Somebody who you trust to be straight with you and NOT somebody at your current job. Like a spouse, best friend, etc. Ask them where they got lost. Ask them what THEY think you're trying to say.

After you've done these two steps, edit again. They may only be minor edits - but it will give you confidence that you're hitting the right balance....

Finally, speaking of hitting the right balance. DON'T make the mistake of writing your resume TOO TIGHTLY to the job specs. You might be limiting your advancement! Make sure to include any genuine accomplishments that show you can work "half a step above" the posted job. The balance is to show that you can advance to the next step, but that you're not already too advanced for the job.

Good luck!

-Hugh