VU Amsterdam vacancies are published simultaneously internally and externally. In case of equal suitability, current VU Amsterdam employees have a preferential position.
In exceptional situations, a vacancy may be only aimed at internal candidates. You can view the vacancies on internal-jobs.vu.nl. For each vacancy, it is mentioned if the external candidates can apply as well.
All publically available vacancies of VU Amsterdam are found on workingat.vu.nl.
What does the preferential position mean?
- You are always invited for an introductory meeting - as long as you can prove that you meet the requirements for the position.
- In case of equal suitability, you as an internal candidate are preferred over an external candidate.
- But be aware, you do not have a priority position: that is reserved for reassignment candidates.
How can you optimally use your preferential position?
1. Prepare, just like you would for an external job application. When you apply to another organisation, you want to convince the selection committee that you are the best candidate. The same applies to an internal job application: even if colleagues know you already, they don't know everything about your experience, talents and motivation for this job. So prepare the same way you would if if you applied outside VU Amsterdam:
a. make an up-to-date CV and customize it to the vacancy. Highlight the relevant knowledge and experience for this job offer as much as possible.
b. Write a good cover letter. In your letter, clarify why you apply for this job specifically within VU Amsterdam. Explain why your experience and network are an advantage for this job. Provide examples of tasks or projects that show you meet the requirements.
c. Are you invited for an interview? Keep a professional attitude during the interview, even if the committee has colleagues that you know well. So prepare well, don't comment negatively on your current workplace or colleagues, and be aware of your non-verbal communication. Online you can find many tips for preparing your interview well.
Would you like to know more about applying successfully? VU E-learning has a few useful training courses:
- I want that job: write a perfect CV and a convincing cover letter.
- The gutsy way to get the job: learn how to present yourself well in your letter and interview.
You can log into GoodHabitz via the link.
2. Make use of your prior knowledge and VU network. As an internal candidate, you know VU Amsterdam and how to find the information to prepare optimally. A few tips:
a. Review the faculty's or division's websites and look up as much information as you can, for example the annual plan and annual report of the department (or ask the contact person for these documents). What sticks out to you, what excites you? How can you contribute to this with your competencies? Think of questions you can ask to show that you delved into the department and job.
b. Request information from the contact person of the vacancy. For example, you can ask questions about the composition of the team, developments in the department and what experience and competencies are important. Make use of this information: incorporate it into your letter and CV by emphasizing certain competencies or werk experiences, and have relevant examples ready in your interview.
c. Ask colleagues of the department about the atmosphere and developments. Ask if you can come by or ask questions by phone. In this way, you can obtain a broader image of the department and your role. Use this information in your letter, CV and interview.
d. Ask two colleagues if they want to be a reference for you and mention the names in your application.
3. Are you not selected for the position? Even in an internal application the result can be disappointing, even if you do match the requirements. Your preferential position does not guarantee success. In case of a rejection, you are entitled to a personal substantive argumentation, so you know what your next steps could be and/or how you could develop. Does your rejection not give you a clear answer, then ask the contact person of the vacancy about it. If you want to know more about how to approach your development afterwards, you can discuss this with your manager in the annual consultation or ask your HR Advisor. If you seek career advice, then take a loot at the opportunities in career advice and coaching that VU Amsterdam offers.
VU E-learning offers even more training courses that may help you in your career, for example if you don't know exactly what you want or what your talents are.