Honest Ways of Work Searching Whilst Still Utilized

Whether we admit it or not, there come moments when we feel dissatisfied with our current endeavors, prompting us to explore new, more challenging career paths to further develop ourselves. Yet, this job-seeking venture is often approached with caution to avoid jeopardizing our existing positions and professional trajectories. We fear that discovery might swiftly usher us out the door. But is job searching solely the domain of the unemployed?

Generally, two categories of individuals engage in job searches: those who have been laid off and those who are presently employed within their field. The unemployed have ample time at their disposal, rendering them more inclined to embark on an intensive job hunt. However, those who remain employed have a higher likelihood of securing a new position. Why? Because their current employment status convinces hiring managers of their desirability compared to their jobless counterparts. Yet, the employed job seekers shouldn’t celebrate prematurely, for job-hunting strategies carry risks, especially concerning their ongoing employment.

While many individuals continue job hunting while already employed, complications can arise, particularly if their current employers stumble upon their resumes on job boards. The most evident outcome of higher-ups discovering your job-seeking activities is potential termination. Hence, one must be prepared for such scenarios during their job search.

Job Search While Employed: The Challenge

Confidentiality is often a fleeting concept. Information spreads, a fact of life. Even if you walk into a prospective employer’s office miles away from your workplace, you still face the risk of recognition. Colleagues might spot you entering or exiting the premises. If not colleagues, there are other individuals who can inadvertently put you in an unfavorable situation, including co-workers’ spouses, clients, adversaries with a grudge against you, and in the worst case, your supervisor.

If none of these individuals notice you, consider yourself fortunate. Nonetheless, you should remain vigilant. Those you interacted with during the interview might know someone connected to your current employer. Consequently, they could inquire about you, exposing your “secret” job search.

3 C’s to Consider During a Job Search While Employed

Consult any seasoned job seeker, and you’ll realize that no secret is truly safe (unless someone leverages it). Thus, preparation is key for the inevitable moment when your job hunt is discovered. Keep the 3 Cs in mind when pursuing new job opportunities while still holding employment:

Be Cautious

• Avoid Using Company Resources for Job Search

It might surprise you, but companies have monitoring mechanisms that track the websites you visit and the emails you send. Even phone calls can be sporadically monitored by hiring managers.
With this in mind, it’s wiser to have prospective employers contact you through your personal phone or home. Request that they send responses to your queries to your personal email address.

• Refrain from Engaging in Job Search Activities at Work

True, you are an employee there, and naturally, you might use some of the office’s trivial supplies and resources such as paper, pens, staples, and tools. While you may be entitled to use these items, refrain from utilizing them for your job search.
Your company, especially your supervisor, hired you to accomplish tasks, not to conduct a job search during work hours. Remember, if discovered, this could reflect poorly on you and impact your future references.

Be Private

• Exercise Discretion in Sharing with Colleagues

As mentioned earlier, people are fond of gossip. Hence, it’s crucial to consider carefully to whom you reveal your plans and secrets. Even your closest friend cannot guarantee complete secrecy about your job search. You never know when they might inadvertently let your confidential search slip. While you might think these small oversights are harmless, you’ll realize their impact when the information reaches your workplace or your supervisor.

• Opt for Phone Interviews Whenever Possible

Phone interviews are mutually beneficial for both you and your potential employer. Firstly, your potential employer can swiftly evaluate your suitability for the role. Moreover, since the initial interview is conducted via phone, you can save time and eliminate the hassle of commuting to and from the interview location. This approach is particularly convenient since cell phones are permissible during lunch breaks, affording you the flexibility to take interviews at your convenience.

Be Considerate

• Maintain Positive Relationships

Just because you’re exploring new horizons doesn’t mean you should jeopardize your current professional relationships. Remember, you may need your current employer for future references. With that in mind, avoid severing ties with your current boss, as you may require their endorsement down the line. When you ultimately accept a job offer, it’s only fair to inform your employer before anyone else.
These guidelines will certainly help you navigate the intricacies of conducting a job search while employed. So, is it limited to the jobless? Certainly not. Even if you’re currently employed, you can still seek greener pastures. Simply remain professional and make prudent choices. Eventually, your dream job will manifest.

Diane Williams has fifteen years of encounter mentoring individual resource specialists and recruitment agency workers.

Image Supply: Ari Erma  on  Unsplash

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