Recruitment predicament

[Toyoda]

I've got an interview next week for a job (let's call it Job A) in my local council, but today another job (let's call it Job B) has been advertised with the same local council, in a completely different service but obviously it's the same employer and HR department etc. As is sods law, I'm more interested in the job that's just popped up today (plus the pay is better) than the one for which I have an interview next week. I fully intend to apply for Job B.

I know it's all hypothetical BUT if I get offered Job A next week how on earth do I play it with regards to the matter of my application for Job B? The fact it's the same organisation probably means I'd have to come clean with the manager of Job A and tell them I have an outstanding application elsewhere in the council but I'm not sure how well it would be received and if good faith would instantly be lost? For info, the interview for Job A is 11th Nov, the closing date for applications for Job B isn't until 19th Nov, then there's usually a few days gap while they shortlist, so I'd expect to hear if I've been invited to interview for Job B early w/c 24 Nov at the latest, then interviews for Job B are already scheduled for 3rd Dec.

I've googled this predicament and in every case the advice is for jobs across 2 different employers but my position is different in that it's the same employer. Any tactful suggestions welcomed! Many thanks.

[Dynion Araf Uchaf]

Have you considered that they might interview you at the same time for both jobs. A decent recruiter doesn’t wait for deadlines to happen

Just be positive about both roles. Especially if you have e a job already and aren t desperate.

Also you might find the second job the manager is a bit of a throbber. Which will make it easier

[fourstardan]

I'd speak to the HR department and explain and see what they think.

They work for the hiring manager at the end of the day so won't be too bothered to me.

[Tim_D]

Honestly, I think I’d just be upfront about it from the start. I'd position myself as motivated to work for the council regardless of Job A or Job B outlining suitability for both roles and use the interview process for both me and the council to determine the best fit. I wouldn’t express a firm preference upfront - especially not based on pay. Instead framing myself as motivated by fit, and where I can add the most value, if I pushed I would outline why my experience is better aligned to Job B but the interview process is a good opportunity to validate.

If they see you as good talent, they’ll be happy to have you in either role. I don’t think being open about your interest in both would do you any disservice - if anything, it shows commitment and genuine enthusiasm to the Council. There’s a chance it creates a bit of internal tug-of-war if both hiring managers want you, but that’s not a bad position to be in.

[StevieBee]

The chances of both applications being picked up on is quite small. Councils are large, cumbersome beasts that tend to operate in silos even within single departments. Unless both jobs are within the same service area (i.e Social Care or Waste Management, etc), recruitment is normally managed in teams specific to each area. In this case, I'd say the chances of your dual application being picked up on is very remote.

But that aside, I would be upfront. Public Sector works to a different mindset compared to the Private Sector and I really don't think this will be an issue for you.