How to write a resume for an internal promotion

The head of the design department has given in their one-month notice. You are overjoyed because you have been eyeing this position for a long, long time. The company will soon advertise the opening internally and you need to be ready with a killer resume to have a running chance at becoming the next head of design.

Most people don't realize that they need to have a well-written resume when they are applying for internal positions. When you apply for an internal promotion, you will be competing with a number of internal, as well as external, candidates. Your resume needs to feature the right experience, and your very best leadership traits in order for you to shine among the competition.

Just because you have been with the employer for several years, it does not mean that you have an added advantage over every candidate. However, you have the upper hand when it comes to external candidates. Here's how you should create a resume for an internal promotion:

Identify accomplishments that portray your leadership capabilities

The best way of showing your employer that you are ready to take on a management role is to show how you have demonstrated your leadership skills in the past. Many things can show leadership skills on a resume, including additional training you have received, instances where you have supervised and mentored staff members, experience you got from participating in company leadership development programs, and any professional development certification you have gained over the years.

Emphasize the experience that sets you apart from similarly qualified candidates

You are applying for a pretty significant post in your company. The employer will be looking for someone who can step up to the mark. Show them how you have taken on additional responsibilities in your previous roles which are transferable to the new role. Your resume must show how you have successfully solved problems showcasing your intuitive thinking, creative spirit, and initiative nature.

Display your awards and recognition proudly on your resume

Create a separate awards section for your resume to highlight the professional and academic recognition you have received over the years. If you have been recognized for your excellent performance at the same company, then it would add much value to your resume. Another way of portraying recognition on a resume is by adding testimonials and quotes from previous employers, coworkers, or clients.

You must portray your teamwork skills on your resume strategically

There is a greater chance that the hiring manager already knows how great of a team player you are already, but you must nevertheless show your collaboration skills on your resume when you apply for a higher position. Don’t simply list your teamwork skills on your resume. Incorporate your teamwork and collaboration skills into the bullet points of the career summary. You can even write STAR bullet points about how you solved a problem as part of a team.

Interpersonal skills will play a major role in your resume

Being a manager is all about making the right connections with people. Are you an outgoing personality who maintains great relationships with your colleagues? Show instances where you increased the productivity of a project by being a member of a cross-company team. If you have used your cordial relationship with a vendor to bargain a better deal for the business, emphasize that on your resume as well. Interpersonal skills are valuable assets to your resume. Therefore, highlight them strategically on the resume. Bonus points if you can work on accomplishments that showcase your management style in your resume!