Detailed Description of how to write a job transfer request
Learning how to write a job transfer request is a lot like writing a resume cover letter because the basic fundamentals are the same.
In a resume cover letter:
- You need to sell yourself and your abilities
- You need to communicate your points efficiently (ideally, in one page)
- You need to show the hiring supervisor what you can do for his or her division, and/or you need to show the company how the organization will benefit by placing you in the new position
The difference when learning how to write a job transfer request letter is that the ball is not always in your court; under optimal conditions, your company will be actively trying to fill a position, and your transfer is more like an internal application than a personal request.
However, sometimes the need for a job transfer request is strictly personal-perhaps a family illness or change in personal circumstances is forcing you to relocate, and you are writing in hopes of moving your job to another location.
In any case, the first step in writing a successful job transfer request letter is to analyze the situation and know where you are starting from; this will help you set the tone for the letter and focus it accordingly.
When Applying For a Posted Position – Writing a Job Transfer Request
If your job transfer request is in response to a job opening within your company, treat it like what it really is-an application with the benefit of company familiarity.In your letter,
- State straight off your purpose for writing
- Highlight your abilities and experience
- Clearly praise the company (without overdoing it)
- Tell why you want to move up in the company
- Keep the focus on what you can do for the company without sounding like you are bragging
A condensed letter of a job transfer request might look something like:
Sample transfer request letter
[Using proper business format]
Dear [HR Contact or Supervisor],
It has come to my attention that [blank] department is accepting applications for the [state position]; I am forwarding my resume for your consideration.
I have worked for [this company] for [x] years, as a [position], and have found this to be a very well run organization, supportive of its employees; I would like nothing more than to continue my professional growth with this company as my career moves forward.
I have worked in several capacities here at [company], including [list]. Each experience has enhanced my skills and abilities; my current position has allowed to [list what you have learned]. These are skills that I feel would be very well suited to this position.
I look forward to continued growth within this company throughout my career and I thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Signature
Name
Job title
Related:
When Applying For a Personal Transfer Request
Job transfer requests made for personal reasons have the disadvantage of not being made specifically to fill an open position. You have to sell yourself as valuable to the company-valuable enough that they would want to work cooperatively with you and keep you.
For this type of job transfer request, follow the above guide, and also state why you need to request a transfer. In addition to selling your abilities, really play up your commitment to the company, and your desire to remain with them.
- Highlight achievements and skills that would be sorely lost
- Explain why you need to request a transfer
- Be appreciative of what the company has done for you
- Offer a plan for transition which includes training a new person for your position Here’s an example:
Sample job transfer request letter
Dear [name},
I am writing to respectfully request a transfer in location from [office A] to [office B]. A change in my personal circumstances necessitates this move. An illness in my family has made it necessary for me to relocate to [x]. Since I have been with this company for [x time], and have thoroughly enjoyed my employment here, I feel it is in the best interests of myself and of this company that I move operations, rather than leave the company altogether.
In my time here, you have known me to be a person who [list skills and attributes]. I would like to continue providing job excellence to this company, and hope that we are able to work together to find a solution that fits both of our needs.
I understand that this presents some difficulty for the current location, but I feel I can still be of service from this new location, and I am willing to work through [period of transition] to help train new personnel in my position.
I am very appreciative of my time here at [company], the experience has been very rewarding in many ways.
I thank you for taking the time to consider my request and anxiously await your decision.
Sincerely,
your signature
your name name
Title
You should fee free to appeal to the human side of your employer, and be sure to include appropriate reasons why you are requesting a transfer; however, resist the urge to be plaintiff and keep this part of the request short-no one likes a whiner!!
The Key to a perfect transfer request
The key in how to write a job transfer request that is effective is to balance your skills and assets with the needs of the company. Play up the angles that are open to you, but be careful not to come off as sounding presumptuous and arrogant; you want to be viewed as a valuable company asset, not a thorn in the side worth losing!
In all job transfer requests, keep the focus on the company and its benefit as much as possible. Selling your invaluable self will surely get you the move you need!
