Finding a new job while you’re still employed is a tricky prospect. On one hand, you are more attractive to potential employers if you currently have a job while on the other hand, one false move and you could end up being fired or at the very least, sully your reputation in the job market.
It’s easy to get excited at the prospect of a new position. However, you should be smart about how you approach your job search. Remember, you still have a responsibility to your current employer. While planning to leave your current job might be born out of the desire to grow to a different position or you feel it’s time for you to move on or simply because you feel you’ve become too comfortable in your current position; no matter the reason you should be careful not to leave behind an angry employer or as it’s popularly referred to, 'burning bridges' with your current employer as you might/will need them later on in your career journey.
Finding a new job while you’re still employed is a tricky prospect. On one hand, you are more attractive to potential employers if you currently have a job while on the other hand, one false move and you could end up being fired or at the very least, sully your reputation in the job market.
Here are a few tips on how you can search for a job while still employed:
1. Tell your boss
I don’t mean going to your boss and letting them know point blank that you are searching for another job elsewhere. If you let them know directly it may lead to you getting dismissed. However, it’s good to let your boss know that you are searching for an advancement in your career hence making them aware that you are looking for any promotions or are available for new positions that will allow you to get more experience. This ensures that in case there are new positions within the organization they’ll have you in mind and consider you for promotions. If there’s no room for immediate change in the organization then telling your boss makes them aware that you are ready for something different. In spite of all that, how you communicate this to your boss will determine if you get that promotion or get fired so be careful not to spill too much information.
2. Remain productive in your current position:
Showing signs of demotivation or lack of interest at all in your current role sends a clear message that you are less productive. Even as you search for a new job, make sure you are still giving your current employer your all and you are useful to your team.
3. Don’t search for jobs during working hours:
Spending time that you are meant to be working to search for a job will not be taken well by your employer as you are still being paid for your service. Therefore, it’s advisable that you allocate time for your job search before or after working hours to avoid conflict with your colleagues or employer.
4. Use your personal numbers and emails for your job search:
There is nothing as bad as a recruiter calling your office number to request for you on grounds that you sent your CV to them and you’ve listed your office number as you contact details in your application. Ensure you use your personal number as you send out your applications. Also, keep in mind that company communication channels are monitored and it’s very easy for your employer to know if you are hunting for a new job.
5.Keep your job search a secret:
Your colleagues and employer need not know that you are job hunting as this will show your dissatisfaction with your job. Keep your job search a secret so that it doesn’t become office news for everyone to discuss; this is a personal matter not teamwork.
6. Do not say negative things about your current employer:
Assuming you are called for an interview, never bad mouth your current or any former employer as this limits your chances of getting that job you are interviewing for. Always keep your dissatisfaction with your boss to yourself and make it a learning item.
Bottom Line
Use common sense in all areas of the job search when communicating about your availability for new job opportunities. Make sure your information is up-to-date so that recruiters can easily understand where you are in your career progression. Maintain the status quo at your current job until you're ready to put in your notice and all will be well.
