What are some tips for approaching a manager about an internal transfer when in the past she has blocked other associates from transferring? I want to be clear, concise and completely transparent but am really nervous she won’t receive the news well
I spent the past 34 years in management positions in homecare (14 years) and in a NICU in CA (20 years). As long as evaluations have been adequate and there are no current performance improvement plans/disciplinary actions in place, a manager generally does not have the authority to block a transfer. It may be beneficial for you to involve Human Resources if this occurs.
Request a meeting for a specific date and time outside of your regular shift. This allows you to be fresh for the meeting and prevents work-related interruptions. Practice what you are going to say (to a friend or family member) before the meeting. Dress in business attire, if possible, but no matter what you wear, remember to be neat and clean. Smile and be cordial, reach out to shake her hand, this is not a confrontation. Let her know that you are coming to her out of respect and courtesy as your manager and would like to discuss opportunities in another area of expertise. Have an outline and notes so that you can stay organized and on-track. Do not get flustered if she asks questions. Take a moment to organize your thoughts before answering. Do not rush to give the first thing that pops into your head.
Recognize that which is positive about your current work environment and verbalize that you appreciated the opportunities to learn and grow there. Present your goals for changing positions, such as learning new skills or increasing the acuity of your patients. Focus on the positives, it is much easier to win her over that way. When the meeting is over, again reach out to shake her hand and thank her for her time.
Good luck!
So as I have found that having a good working relationship with that manager helps but yes it still can be difficult. If you are transferring to a different department then it’s always easy to say, although I like my job I feel that it is time for a new challenge and would like to expand your knowledge. And thank them for the opportunity they have given you.
Everything that Wendy said in the other post is completely true. The question I would ask you is. "Find out the why"? What were the reasons given to the other associates for blocking their transfer? What is the facility policy and is there an appeals process?
Reality: You want to leave your current position. Why? Is the reason large enough to quit instead of continuing to work on the unit. If the answer is yes, then, remember that is a course of action as well. A transfer and a resignation are the same thing for a manager. She will have to fill a slot. If she would rather you quit than transfer that says it all. If the manager doesn't take in well, then she lacks leadership maturity. (1) The goal of leadership is to get the right people in the right seat on the bus. (This also pays off for the hospital as it cost twice as much if you quit. They have to fill your slot and the unit slot to which you want to transfer. People get on and People get off the bus. Nobody wants to ride the same bus forever. (2) Are you friends outside of work? Is this why she will take it badly? (I had to ask this question.) Totally, different issue.
You should also have an HR person to speak with or if you are a union shop an employee rep to speak with regarding your wanting to transfer. Only speak to the HR rep if you total trust them and will not stir the pot with the manager.
