Embracing Internal Mobility

Internal mobility is a powerful tool for professional growth and job satisfaction. At DKB Code Factory, we believe in fostering an environment where our employees can explore different roles and teams, enhancing their skills and finding their true calling. In the following, we delve into the experiences of some of our colleagues who have navigated team switches within our company. Let’s highlight the personal stories of Lis, Leo & Steffen to dive into the benefits, challenges, and personal growth that come with internal mobility.

written by Fabian Schlüsener, Talent Acquisition Manager

The Motivations Behind the Move

At DKB Code Factory, the reasons for switching teams are as diverse as our employees. Many are driven by the desire to grow their skills, both technical and soft. Lis, for instance, was motivated by the opportunity to engage in broader business requirements and improve decision-making and stakeholder management skills. Initially focused on coding, she transitioned to a role in our Data as a Service (DaaS)-team to gain a wider perspective. Later, she moved to deepen her expertise in React, with a focus on reliability, user experience, and performance. This blend of personal growth and contribution to the company exemplifies how internal mobility can be a win-win situation.

Steffen felt stagnant in his old team and sought new challenges and learning opportunities. He was eager to focus on app development and make joint decisions with the app team. Moving to a larger team presented more career advancement possibilities and leadership opportunities. This shift allowed him to break through his previous limitations and contribute more significantly to the company’s success.

For Leo, the motivation was as straightforward as necessity. He was driven by a long-held dream of becoming a Mobile Developer and found that internal mobility was the less bureaucratic path to achieving his goal. Previously working as a QA Engineer at DKB, Leo was already part of our cross functional team when he decided to switch to DKB Code Factory to become an iOS Developer. This move, facilitated by proactive communication and coordination, allowed him to realize his career aspirations within the supportive environment of DKB Code Factory.

Expectations vs. Reality

Switching teams within a company is not without its surprises. Transparent communication between previous and new team leads is crucial for aligning expectations. Lis emphasized the importance of two key meetings: a handover from the previous lead and a one-on-one with the new lead. This approach helps ensure clarity and transparency, making the transition smoother.

However, even with careful planning, surprises can occur. Lis encountered a challenge when a new team lead changed the team's direction. With support from HR and transparent communication, she navigated this transition successfully, underscoring the importance of a supportive company culture.

Team size and dynamics can also be surprising. For instance, moving to a large app team of over 20 members was unexpected for Steffen. Despite the initial shock, he found the structured and efficient meetings beneficial. Team events played a crucial role in his integration, allowing him to connect with colleagues on a personal level and fostering a sense of belonging.

Leo’s transition was smoother due to prior integration into the new team. His proactive approach and coordination with team leads ensured that his expectations were met, highlighting the importance of taking initiative and maintaining open communication during transitions.

Learnings and Growth

Internal mobility at DKB Code Factory offers invaluable learning experiences and opportunities for personal growth. Lis gained a deeper understanding of company goals and decision-making processes through her team switches. She realized the interconnectedness of various teams and projects, which enhanced her overall perspective. Her soft skills improved significantly, making her more independent and effective in communication and conflict resolution. The hands-on experience with multiple tech stacks further contributed to her professional development.

Structured onboarding and team integration events are crucial for a smooth transition. Steffen learned the importance of these practices and appreciated the collaborative problem-solving within his new team. This experience allowed him to gain insights into app release processes and contribute to various projects and processes, keeping his work engaging and dynamic.

Leo’s journey underscored the significance of persistence and supportive leadership in achieving career goals. His transition to a Mobile Developer was facilitated by mentors and a conducive environment at DKB Code Factory. This experience contrasted sharply with a previous employer’s unwillingness to facilitate a similar switch, highlighting the importance of supportive leadership and mentorship in career development.

Conclusion

Internal mobility at DKB Code Factory offers employees the chance to grow, learn, and find fulfillment in their careers. The experiences of our colleagues highlight the benefits of switching teams, from enhanced skills and professional growth to achieving long-held career dreams. Transparent communication, structured onboarding, and supportive leadership are key to making these transitions successful. As Lis aptly put it, “Changing teams was pretty cool! I got waaaay more experience in several parts I didn't think of, for 'free', helping myself and the company.” Embracing internal mobility not only benefits our employees but also strengthens our organization as a whole.