How to Transfer Within the System Without Upsetting Management

[granimals]

I am wanting to transfer from my current hospital campus which is stationed in the community to the central campus downtown. There is a position open that is perfect for me.

I am worried because I don't want my current manager to know what I'm doing. I'd rather put in an application, get the job and then let him know I'm transferring. Does requesting a transfer within the same hospital system automatically go to your manager? I'm afraid to apply because I don't want him to question me or worse fire me for wanting to leave. I know that my current place is short handed and I don't want to upset anyone.

Are any applications I do within the system private until I choose to divulge it to my superiors?

[SexyFloridaGirl]

In a job, whether it is internal or external, you will need some sort of history to be applicable or eligible for the position. I would say go ahead and apply for the position, but make your stance very clear to your CURRENT workplace. This is called having respect for your CURRENT employer and not ditching them to the curb over something that may or may not be in the best interest of the hospital/company. Since this IS an internal transfer, your new position will definitely be contacting your current supervisor anyway to get a reference on how you behave as an employee. This is just common knowledge. But what I would REALLY stress here is having a real conversation with your supervisor, make it VERY CLEAR why you would want the transfer, and stand your ground. MANY times employees are left with big dilemmas about their position because an employer wants them to continue in a position that is best for their unit, especially if you are a good worker. Ultimately, this is your career, your time, and your life, so make the best of it. If you have a supervisor that is uneasy to speak with or that makes you uncomfortable, you can always say it in writing and when you do this just make a copy and bring it to your future employer so that they are aware of the tension between your supervisor and yourself despite confidentiality because they will want to know what your situation is and where you are coming from and most importantly why you want to leave and go to a different position. Hopefully you can transition maturely and smoothly and your supervisor accepts that and if they don't then it is out of your control from that point. Once you have exhausted all thoughtful avenues there really is not much left but to move on. Wishing you the best of luck.

[C-lion]

I was actually hired for a position within the hospital system without my manager knowing. However, after I was hired she was notified and I had not had time to let her know I was transferring. I wish it had come from me, not the new manager.

[xoemmylouox, ASN, RN]

I do believe that typically the hiring manager talks to your current manager. You can wait and see if you get an interview before you say anything.

[Morainey, BSN, RN]

Perhaps you could approach the hiring manager privately before applying and let them know your current manager doesn't know you're applying, ask their advice and how to go about it.

[hiddencatRN, BSN, RN]

Check your hospital's policy. Where I work, the current manager is required to sign your internal transfer application, so.....they find out!

[PediLove2147, BSN, RN]

At my facility you cannot interview without your current manager's approval. I would go to your manager and explain why you want to transfer. Despite them being short handed she will probably be okay with it if she knows your reasons.

[RoseRyan]

Just a few days ago I was in the same situation as you. I work in a small community hospital on the beach (1 hour commute) and I have been wanting to transfer to our central campus downtown (30 min commute). I was very scared to ask my manager because she is very strict, and very unfriendly. Our unit has a very high turnover rate. People leave as quickly as they are hired and we have lost 4 nurses in the 10 months I have been there. We are constantly short staffed (3 ICU pts every shift) Very unsafe place to work. I too was concerned about her being angry with me and telling me no. I called HR and asked them ahead of time, and they told me that they would NEVER support disciplinary action for me seeking an internal transfer. I basically just went to my manager a few days ago and told her that I didn't feel safe making a 1 hour commute after working all night, and that I found a few positions downtown that I am interested in, and could I have her blessing to apply. I was expecting a fight, but surprisingly she told me to go ahead and and I could use her as a reference. I was shocked to say the least.

You never know until you ask. You only live once and you can't spend it in a job which you are unhappy . I am a very non-confrontational person so it was hard for me to have that conversation with her. I would just set up a meeting with your current manager and tell him what you're thinking. Make sure you're honest, respectful, and be prepared to answer questions. Be flexible as well. Offer to finish out your current schedule, ect...