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According to Andy Teach, one of the advantages of searching for a job when you are still employed is that, when you are working, your professional network can help you. They can inform you about job opportunities that you may not be aware of.
However, the risk factor is that, if your current employer is aware, they may look for your replacement before you find another job. Getting fired could damage your career profile, and that is why you have to be discreet about job searching while you are still employed.
This article highlights ways of ensuring that your job hunting remains a secret and a success.
1. Ensure your career profile is complete
Ensure that your social media profiles are up-to-date to avoid rushing to complete them when searching for a new job. Updating your Fuzu or LinkedIn profile will not drop any hints. A complete career profile might also arouse the interest of prospective employers.
2. Don’t use company resources in your job search
If your company monitors its internet usage, your job search activities may be flagged as suspicious activity. Do you want this to remain a secret? Company computers and office phones should be out of bounds. Not even for updating your resume. Do not receive interview calls while at work, not unless you are trying to get yourself fired.
Use your personal emails and phone number in your job applications and resumes.
3. Make use of your network
Tap into those connections you have – but carefully. Talk to that trustworthy professional friend of yours privately. Ask them to send you any leads they come across. Ask them for confidentiality in your job hunting. Moreover, they might provide recommendations for you. Referrals from current employees are perceived to make the best hires.
4. Ask for discretion from prospective employers
During advanced interview stages when submitting your job application, ask your potential employer for confidentiality. Inform them that you would appreciate it if your current boss knew nothing about your gesture. Your boss should not find out that you are looking for a job while still on their payroll. The fewer people know, the better. If they are unwilling to honor your request, pursue other opportunities.
5. Don’t Lag at Your Current Workplace
Just because you are seeking employment elsewhere does not give you the right to suck at your job. Focus on your work and be productive. Thus, do not check out earlier than usual or disrespect your supervisor. On the contrary, this should be the time to make improvements in your performance. Maintain your reputation to leave on good terms with everyone. Avoid sabotaging yourself.
6. Do not tell your co-workers
Unless there is an impending layoff or expiring contract, maintaining discretion includes not telling your co-workers what you are up to. If you intend to leave your current work on a good note, informing the people you work with will make that difficult. Depending on your relationship with your boss, it could also jeopardize your current and potential opportunities.
7. Strategically schedule interviews
Make sure that your job interviews do not collide with your working hours. It takes your supervisor a couple of days to realize you have been sneaking out or coming late. Hence, it is easier to detect the possibility that you are looking for opportunities elsewhere.
Therefore, strive to schedule these interviews before work, during lunch breaks, after work hours, or on your off-days. This way, your productivity at work will not be affected.
8. Maintain the relationship between you and your employer
Finally, do not burn bridges on your way out. You might want to come back. Leaving your current job on a good note with your employer leaves the door open if you're going to come back. If the relationship with your current boss is not good, do not bad-mouth them. Instead, show some respect by concentrating on the positive reasons of exploring other options and looking for more challenging positions. It might also create a solid foundation for you in the prospective job.
In conclusion...
The key to hunting for jobs while still on the payroll is to maintain discretion and the relationship at your current workplace. Moreover, I advise on maintaining a positive attitude, and preserve your reputation by consistently working hard.