It may be time for a promotion or an opportunity to try out another segment of the hospitality industry. When an opening is available within your current company, what kinds of questions should you expect in the internal interview?  How can you put your best foot forward and beat the competition for this new role?

Even though you may already know the hiring manager, it’s important to prepare thoroughly before your interview. You’ll get some of the same questions you’d expect from any company, including the following:

• Why are you interested in this position?
• What skills and experiences make you a strong applicant for this role?
• Do you prefer working in a team or alone? 
• What is your biggest strength that can be applied to this job?
• Where do you hope to be in five years?
• What is your ultimate dream job?

Because the interviewer may not be familiar with your recent projects or team duties, he/she may ask about your experience within the company as well as before you began working there. Some possible questions might include:

• What first drew you to this company?
• How long have you been in the hospitality industry?
• When did you decide you were interested in this industry?
• How would your current team members describe you?
• What led you to apply for this new position?
• Who has been your biggest mentor and what have you learned from him/her?

You can also expect some detailed questions about why you’re interested in making a change in your role. For example:

• What experience in your current position has prepared you for this new role?
• Tell me about a time you had a disagreement with a colleague and how you resolved it.
• How would you help your replacement get on-board if you move on to this new position?
• If another person is hired, would you have hard feelings?
• What is your proudest accomplishment in your current role and how would that help you in this new position?
• Have you spoken with your current manager about applying for this job?
• What changes would you make if you are selected for this new role?

You may also get some questions about your transition:

• Why type of training will you need to be successful?
• Does your manager know you’ve applied for this job?
• How will you handle the transition from training your replacement to taking over the new role?
• What if you don’t get the job? Will you plan to leave the company?

Act and Dress Professionally

Make sure you are prepared with a resume, a list of specific accomplishments or awards, any new certifications or education, and can speak to what skills you have that make you a good fit for this job. If there is an experience or positive trait from your current job, be sure to explain how it inspired you to seek out more responsibility or perhaps a management position. Finally, pitch why your strongest attributes will help the company. 

Interviewing internally is a unique situation. You have the advantage of knowing more about the company values and culture and may even know some people who are currently in the department you’re seeking. Talk to someone you trust about the job and ask if they can give you some insights into what you should emphasize or learn more about before your meeting. Make sure you understand the new job and its requirements.

And…of course, don’t forget the interview basics:  Even if you know the interviewer already, strike a professional tone… not too casual. Dress the part, be on time, come prepared with your resume, give specific examples of your accomplishments and how you’ll add value to the organization. Don’t forget to send a thank-you note expressing your interest and appreciation for their time. Whatever you do, don’t give in to the opportunity to pester the interviewer if you see them during the workday. Be professional and patient until it’s appropriate to follow up.