Conducting a Job Search while still Employed

Searching for a new job can be stressful regardless of the circumstances, and the situation gets much more complicated if you’re still employed. It’s often very difficult to hide your job search from your boss and colleagues, but still somehow find the time to attend interviews. Keep your job search quiet—and honest—with these simple tips.

Don’t tell Anyone

The number one rule is, if you don’t want the secret to get out, don’t talk about it. Don’t tell any co-workers about your plans to find a new job unless you know without a doubt that you can trust them to keep your secret. Even then, be cautious—news like this has a way of getting found out, and the more people you tell, the less safe your secret is.

Don’t use Email or the Phone at Work

Some employers may monitor email messages or phone calls made using company equipment. If you must make phone calls at work, use your personal cell phone, and be sure you’re in any area where nobody can overhear you. Use only your home computer and a personal email account for online contact with employers.

Schedule Interviews Carefully

Try to schedule interviews either before or after work, or during your lunch hour. Be careful, though—if you don’t normally go out for lunch and you suddenly start doing that several times a week, your boss may notice and become suspicious. If you really can’t interview at these times, try to schedule several interviews for the same date then take a personal day off. Again, avoid suspicion by keeping those personal days to a minimum.

If you don’t usually dress formally for work, consider bringing a change of clothes on interview days—suddenly dressing up for no apparent reason may also cause suspicion.

Choose References Carefully

Naturally, you won’t want to use your current employer as a reference—make your selections from previous employers. Explaining why you chose older reference to any potential employers should not reduce your chances of receiving a job offer.

Don’t Look for Work during Work

Finally, be honest when searching for your new position. You’re still being paid to work for your current employer, so don’t use work time to hunt for a new job.

Also, please review our Tools to Find a Job section.  If you need more help, please consider using a Career Counselor.