How to achieve internal mobility

You've invested time in mastering your current role and developed a deep understanding of your organization, and now you’re ready for the next step. Instead of starting from scratch in a new company, you’re excited to grow where you are and make an even greater impact.

But how do you achieve internal mobility? Vice President of Strategy & Innovation at CLS, Katy Lau, offers a compelling roadmap. Her journey within CLS — from a business manager in the Chief Information Officer (CIO) Office to an integral role in the Office of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) — demonstrates the power of curiosity, proactivity and confidence in moving and growing within a company.

We caught up with Katy to explore her top three tips for internal mobility that can lay the foundation for your growth.

1. Be curious

As a new member of the CIO Office, Katy’s first steps with CLS involved a crash course in IT. “While I had experience in strategy and business management, I didn’t have an IT background, so I had lots to learn every day, ranging from the division structure and objectives to getting to know stakeholders during lockdown.”

To get up to speed, Katy asked questions and, in turn, received comprehensive support from her manager. “Within three months of joining, my manager encouraged me to moderate a fireside chat with a board member.”

Curiosity turned out to be a superpower — and a significant driver of internal mobility.

“Learn as much as you can about your role, and be curious about what is happening elsewhere in the organization,” Katy adds. This approach has allowed her to connect the dots regarding CLS’s strategic direction and see beyond her immediate scope of work.

2. Be proactive

Two years after joining CLS, Katy felt ready for a new challenge and set her sights on a role in the Office of the CEO.

“I decided to be proactive and asked the hiring manager for a chat to find out more about the role’s responsibilities and discuss how my skills and knowledge about the inner workings of CLS could add value to the team.” Katy’s initiative paid off, and she transitioned to the new role.

Fostering a strong network is another crucial aspect of internal mobility, according to Katy. “Build your network through work and other activities. Coffee chats are the best,” she suggests. Intentionally connecting with colleagues across different departments not only broadens your perspective, it can also open doors to new opportunities within the organization.

3. Be confident

For Katy, challenges are the stepping stones that lead to a fulfilling career. "Don’t be put off if you don’t tick all the boxes for a role," Katy encourages. "There is always room to grow, and it’s great to take up a challenge by going the extra mile you never knew you could reach."

This mindset helped Katy secure her first role in the CIO Office, despite not having a background in IT. And it reassured her that she’s in the driving seat of her career. “I’m keen to leverage what I’ve learned as part of the technology team while continuing to broaden my knowledge of the organization and its essential role in the financial services industry.”

While Katy's three tips will help position you to change roles across divisions, the final catalyst is a management team that actively champions your growth with an open mindset about internal mobility.

“I’m very grateful for my manager,” she reflects. “In my original role, I was given a lot of opportunities to work with senior management in the division. There was a great deal of trust and autonomy. She also helped me to further develop my strengths and work on areas that needed improvement.”