Internal mobility is not a rare occurrence at Wix. We had a fascinating conversation with Igor Shegolev (formerly UX, now a Front-End Developer) and Nita Benoliel-Inbar (formerly Product and Privacy Consultant, now a Product Manager) to get their insights on making the switch. We also spoke with our Internal Mobility Manager, Yael Kaminsky, to get some useful tips.

Can you start by introducing yourselves and sharing your background?

Nita: I'm Nita, and I've been with Wix for over two years. I studied law at Tel Aviv University and initially worked in large law firms with tech companies. I transitioned into product consulting, focusing on regulation, technical requirements, compliance and privacy, which led me to join Wix's Legal Product team. But my heart was always drawn to the business side.

Igor: I joined the UX team in 2016 when Wix was still relatively small. The past five to six years have been incredible, working with a great team and enjoying a dynamic company culture. My role has always involved a mix of UX and coding, from animations and prototypes, to more technical aspects. The journey has been about pushing boundaries and continuous learning.

What made you consider changing roles within Wix?

Nita: After a year as a Product and Privacy Consultant, I realized that my role wasn't fulfilling me. I found myself more engaged and excited during discussions with product managers about creative solutions. I wanted to be a part of the action, creating and innovating rather than advising.

Igor: My UX manager planted the seed of internal mobility and the idea took root. I always balancedUX tasks with technical work, but the opportunity to dive deeper into coding was really intriguing for me. The transition was a natural evolution of my skills and interests.

"Seek out opportunities to help or volunteer in the field you want to move into" - Nita

How did the internal mobility process start for each of you?

Nita: I reached out to HR and met Yael Kaminsky, the Internal Mobility Manager. Initially, I just wanted to explore how I could expand my role. My manager, Lior Saar, noticed I wasn't happy and suggested I take some time to think about it. With Yael's guidance and the kind support and understanding of my manager, I realized that product management was my true calling. Yael also connected me with key people and resources for advice, making the transition smoother.

Igor: We carefully planned the transition, balancing my UX tasks with my new role. I completed a take-home assignment that was well-received, and the onboarding process was really helpful. I learned all about new tools and how to adapt quickly. The support from my team made the transition seamless.

Nita Benoliel-Inbar

What challenges did you face during your transitions?

Nita: Adapting to a different work style was challenging. Legal work is more linear, while product work is dynamic. It requires a mindset shift. The transition pushed me out of my comfort zone, but it was incredibly rewarding.

Igor: I didn’t have many technical gaps, but there was a constant need to learn new tools and systems. Wix managers value how you think and your approach to problem-solving over technical gaps. It was about embracing a growth mindset and staying curious.

"The journey itself is valuable, helping you discover what you love and what you don’t" - Igor

Igor Shegolev

What tips do you have for others considering internal mobility?

Nita: Seek out opportunities to help or volunteer in the field you want to move into. Every experience is a chance to learn and grow. Stay curious and proactive.

Igor: Stay active and embrace continuous learning. The journey itself is valuable, helping you discover what you love and what you don’t.

Some useful tips from our Internal Mobility Manager, Yael Kaminsky

Can you share some useful tips for optimizing the process?

Timing is everything - Like many things in life, timing is everything. Starting the process at the right time can affect its success. We don't have an official tenure limitation for applying for internal mobility, but you should ideally spend a significant amount of time in your first position to ensure you've exhausted your growth opportunities. On the other hand, starting the process at a stage when you’re already frustrated in your current situation or when your motivation is lacking, might make it harder for you to keep up the good work while waiting for the process to unfold.

Research - This is particularly important if you're considering a career change. Have conversations with the guild you want to join, inquire about their learning materials (such as professional onboarding) and speak with employees within that guild. Understand their daily tasks, perhaps even try a small task yourself and consider taking relevant courses. It's a significant career decision, so do your homework. If you are considering a lateral move within your profession, you should probably research the new team’s culture, tasks and challenges to make sure it answers your growth needs.

Networking - This is not necessarily part of the process but having a broad professional network within your guild or across other teams and companies can be very helpful when considering a new role. Participating in guild activities or in cross-team projects will expand your network and allow more people to get to know you. That way, when the time comes you may be asked to join their team.

We're here for you - If you feel unsure or confused about your next career move, don't hesitate to reach out. While I may not know the professional specifics (that's what the guilds are for), I can help you consider different directions, help you navigate the process, communicate with your manager and guide you on how to handle the situation if things don't go as planned.

What are some tips for conducting yourself during the process?

Patience - This is a big decision and it can be a lengthy process. Sometimes there are open positions, and everything aligns perfectly. However, there are also situations where it takes time to find the right fit – don't give up! Keep up the good work in your current team, try to find more growth opportunities while you are waiting and continue being proactive. Being patient means not rushing into the wrong opportunity just because it’s available, and on the other hand, understanding that it’s important to stay motivated and positive in your current position.

Approach & communication - Ongoing open communication with your manager about your professional growth and aspirations is always recommended; it will help your manager support your development and expose you to projects that align with your career goals. Additionally, when you do share your prospects of considering a new role with your manager, neither one of you will be shocked by the decision and you’ll both have time to prepare.

Yael Kaminsky

Keep being the best you - For obvious reasons, this could be a sensitive moment in your relationship with your team and your manager, especially if the move isn't happening in ideal circumstances (whether it is because things are not working out in your current role, or you are doing an amazing job and your manager is having a hard time letting you go). The way you manage your communication and relationship with the different stakeholders throughout the process could have a huge effect on its success.

"Timing is everything; start the process at the right time for success" - Yael Kaminsky

Resilience - Since the process doesn't always end in success, it’s good to have a plan B. Again, open communication with your current manager will help you both think of growth opportunities that might have been overlooked.