I have learned of two job opportunities within my organization (one of them local the other remote) that I would like to pursue. I have already informed my supervisor about my desire, and she encouraged me to go for it. Both positions are outside of my department and field.
Recently, I spoke with a high ranking individual within the organization, but not at our location, who suggested I inform my supervisor's boss as well (the two are good friends).
The questions I have are:
Do I suggest my supervisor let her boss know or do I...or do I not pursue this? I don't know if my boss would actual bring this forward. I feel it's my responsibility, but I don't want to skip him.
If it is determined that I should contact her boss, would an email suffice or should I set up a meeting appointment? I'm not sure if this rises to the level of face-to-face.
Furthermore:
Is it appropriate for me to contact the supervisor of the department at my location directly to express interest in the job?
Internal etiquette on job postings
What is expected internally will likely vary, and you should take the advice of others in your organization. It sounds as though you have a good relationship with your manager so you will probably not misstep here too much.
1. You should be having regular development discussions with your manager, some of which may include what other types of jobs in the company you are interested in. Sounds like you're covered here.
2. When you see an internal posting and you apply, you may or may not tell your manager. Where I work it's not "required" to inform your manager unless you are selected for an interview. Personally, I will usually bring the opportunity up for discussion to get their feedback on the unit/department/role/hiring manager. If you are selected for an interview, just send an email to your boss to let them know, and ask if he/she wants you to communicate up the line or not.
In general, your manager's boss should probably be having discussions about development in your organization, and identifying developmental needs for people that cannot be satisfied within his (or her) organization. Some people are better at this than others. Some may only do this for identified talent. Some may not do this at all. Either way, you may not know whether this is happening. It sounds like you've gotten advice to let your next line manager know your intentions. Normally I would think this is your managers responsibility, and if you go around them they may feel as though you're pointing out the fact that they are not doing their job. I would rely on your boss to communicate this up the line.
-JIB
Thanks!
Thanks for your response, JIB. I felt the same way, but I had hoped to get someone else's perspective and insight. I did talk to my boss about it, and she said she would do it or I could. I took the initiative and let her supervisor know that I had talked to her. Again, I thank you for taking the time to share your insight and advice.
-J