Many times, searching for a new job happens while you’re already employed at another company. This can work to your advantage because you’ll have a fallback and steady income as you look for new opportunities.
However, if your managers find out that you’re looking to leave, you run the risk of upsetting your boss and potentially losing the job that’s already yours.
Tread carefully as you search for a new role. Follow these methods for navigating your job as well as the job search.
USE YOUR SPARE TIME TO NETWORK
Networking is important in any business scenario, especially when job searching. Your current connections at other companies are fantastic resources for your job search, but you should also find time to explore new networks.
Remember these tips when covertly networking for new jobs:
- Use LinkedIn’s messaging feature to communicate with current and new connections about job opportunities. Communications can be sent more discretely here than via company email—just make sure any LinkedIn notifications and messages run through your personal email account, not your company account.
- Make sure your resume and LinkedIn account are updated, and you’re connected and engaging with industry colleagues. Specifically, read, like and comment on the content they are sharing.
- Create a personal email account for job search-related emails, and only offer it and your personal cell phone number on job boards and on your resume.
- Attend networking events before and after work. Going to these types of events doesn’t make it obvious that you’re on the job hunt, and it allows you to meet people that may be interested in someone with your skills.
MAKE TIME TO SEEK NEW OPPORTUNITIES
Your typical day is probably busy, but you’ll have to make time for job search-related activities, whether it’s updating your resume, attending interviews, connecting with colleagues at other companies, talking with recruiters, or filling out applications.
While carving out time for job searching, keep the following in mind:
- Be flexible. An interviewer or recruiter may need to speak with you at inconvenient times. If you want a new opportunity, you’ll have to make sacrifices periodically to make yourself available.
- Avoid pushing interviews back. Some interviewers may not be willing to wait for your next available time, so don’t lose your opportunity.
- Your current coworkers may become suspicious if you have to leave frequently for interviews and meetings. If you need to leave the office for interviews, don’t give fishy excuses.
OVERALL, ALWAYS MAINTAIN A BALANCE
One of the most important parts of searching for a job while you’re already employed is striking a balance between your current responsibilities and future opportunities. Although you’re looking for greener pastures, your current job is still a priority—to keep up with your workload and job performance, you may need to work some nights and weekends. Nothing is certain until you’ve accepted a new offer, so remain devoted to your current job.
Essentially, you need to keep your current employer happy while showing the prospective employer that you’re interested. That may seem difficult, but it’s a necessity.
THE #1 KEY TO JOB HUNTING WHILE ON THE JOB
Searching for a new job while you’re employed is inevitably stressful, but the best way to lighten the load is to find a good executive recruiter.
You’ll be handing off many of your job-searching responsibilities to someone who is an expert at matching people with opportunities. Recruiters will also have your best interest in mind and will work discretely and diligently to match you with an ideal opportunity.
Contact an expert Ciresi & Morek recruiter today.