Asked to interview for job at the same level...

[Calmbell]

Last month I interviewed for a role. I didn't get it but received very positive feedback, although I have had some time away from the industry which they mentioned. The job went to someone internally and now they are asking for me to interview to replace them. The role is virtually the same, with some differences (slightly less responsibility, but in essence the same job).

Should I apply? I feel like if they really wanted me they would just offer me this other job and that they are hedging their bets to see if they can get someone better.

Ultimately I would like the job but also feel like they might be wasting my time.

Go for it! Why not? They were always going to choose the internal candidate but they obviously thought you were great.

Why would you not interview for it ? Sounds like they really want you, but as it's a different role of course you have to interview again for it.

They might not be able to just offer you the job officially, our company would need to advertise ( even just internally) but they would keep it open for a really short time to minimise applicants

I'm torn on this one, because on the one hand I think that you just lost out, and they are still keen to have you on board But I have been in the other person's shoes (not as an internal candidate but I think it can be similar experiences) twice, where an employer offered me the role but also offered a slightly more junior role to another candidate. Actually, both times, it was the internal candidate. Neither occasion worked out well.

What do you have to lose? It's a foot in the door at least.

Plus it's often not possible to just 'give the job to anyone who interviews well' if they have an objective scoring system and one vacancy, their process might have forced them into giving the highest scoring interviewee the job, even if their gut instinct tells them someone else might be as good, if not better.

Thanks for the replies - really encouraging.

To this point the process has taken 2 months, the role they called me about still isn't advertised and I'm feeling slightly fatigued with the whole process. Will try and stay positive though as it would be a fab role.

Show interest and be keen, but also be savvy and show self worth and don't be a doormat.

I had to interview for an internal job, because they had to follow The Process. It was a formality, it wasn't advertised externally (and barely internally, just enough to tick the box). Good luck!

Well, the interview is partly to figure out if you want the role.

That's true @LameBorzoi I've just applied for a new job, which the listing makes sound like money for old rope, basically about a quarter of my current job, but for more money. So one thing I'll be finding out at the interview is exactly what it is they're expecting the successful candidate to do.