I’m looking to make a career switch within different government departments—same pay band, different focus area—and I’m not sure how to approach it. I’ve been in my current role for three years, but I’m ready for something new. I’ve heard the internal application process can be just as competitive as external hiring, and I’m wondering how people have successfully made that move. Did you go through official channels only, or did networking internally play a big role? Any advice or stories would be really helpful!

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I made a similar switch by reaching out to people in the department I wanted to join and asking for informational interviews. It helped me understand their priorities and tailor my application accordingly. Internal transfers can absolutely work if you’re proactive and make the right connections.

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This can depend on the level of government you're working in. Some state governments can have fairly complicated procedures governing internal moves (we don't even deal with federal jobs at the moment). With local governments it can generally be easier to transfer to a different department, assuming that your skills and aptitude would be applicable. Obviously, networking can help a lot, and again, at the local level it's no doubt more effective.

Internal hiring can be just as tough as external, but networking makes a huge difference! I’d start by setting up casual chats with people in the department you’re targeting, get insights, express interest, and maybe even find a mentor. Also, if you can, take on projects that align with your desired role. Good luck!

Where are you finding jobs to do this? Are you looking to stay within your same agency? I applied and was referred for a different agency, then got email saying not filling position it is on hold because of the budget.

There is a hiring freeze. Nothing with be happening until then. Sit tight. Freeze will be lifted by months end.

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