Searching for a New Job While Still Employed

You want to move on to another job, but you can't afford to quit your current job before you start your job search. This dilemma is all too common in the professional world, and going about it the wrong way can have serious consequences. Learn the dos and dont's of completing a job search while employed, and discover some helpful social media tools for getting started.

The Problems of Job Hunting While Employed

The employed job seeker faces the unique challenge of letting potential employers know he's on the market while keeping this fact hidden from his current employer. This makes essential practices such as networking difficult. If your current employer finds out you're conducting a job search, it may not only be awkward, but you might be excluded from opportunities, projects and social events in the workplace. Time is another major challenge. The job search is a tedious, time-consuming process that can be tough to squeeze in outside of work hours. This makes both discretion and proper time management essential for a successful job search.

Etiquette for the Employed Job Seeker

No matter how eager you are to start a new job, give your full attention to your current position throughout the job search. Not only does this help you leave your employer on good terms, it also gives you some security in case you can't find a new job quickly. When you begin interviewing, remind potential employers of your need for confidentiality.

Avoid talking to coworkers about your job search, and never use coworkers from your current place of employment as references. As a professional courtesy to your current employer, avoid completing any part of the job search process on company time, and don't use company office equipment for printing resume copies and other materials. When returning to work immediately after an interview, be sure to bring a change of workplace-appropriate clothing to avoid raising eyebrows.

Use the Right Job Search Tools

When used carefully, social media can be an excellent tool for a discreet job search. Update your LinkedIn profile with a professional head shot and information regarding your education, previous employers and professional qualifications, and consider using the site's Open Candidate feature to privately let recruiters know you are available for hire. Don't forget to fill out the tool's job title and industry preferences for a more targeted job search. You can also use the LinkedIn Career Pages to research companies as well as professionals who fill roles similar to your chosen position.

Completing a successful job search while focusing on your current job is no easy task, in terms of both time and discretion. However, with the right tools and a respectful attitude, you can make a smooth transition between workplaces.

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