Do you know anyone who while at work spends some of their time either paying bills, watching YouTube, scanning Facebook, tracking sports scores, or shopping? It happens. What about searching for another job during work hours? Is it ever a good idea to job search while at your present job? Here are some suggestions for how to look for another job without losing your current one:
Mum’s The Word
Maybe you have a work buddy with whom you typically share the latest and greatest happenings in your life. Do not share that you are searching for a job with this buddy – even if they are your “work wife” or “work husband.” Do not share this with anyone at work. Or, if you are more social online – even if you fashion yourself the queen or king of super private privacy settings – do not post any information about your search. Not even a cleverly veiled reference to it. Keep this one truly private and keep it to yourself.
Stay Off Job Boards While On the Clock
Many employers monitor Internet use, so if you are using a company computer to search for jobs, expect that your current employer knows you are looking. It might seem obvious, but don’t send emails using your current employer’s email system with your current work email address. Also, don’t print out your resume using a company printer, even after hours, and even if you have your own paper.
Phone interviews should never be conducted using your current employer’s phone system and, if at all possible, not held at your current workplace at all. Try to schedule a phone interview during your lunch hour, or take personal/vacation time away from the office. You won’t be able to give your best effort to the interview, if you are worrying about being overheard or interrupted.
Don’t Let Your Work Performance Slide
It may be difficult to focus on doing your best at work, but it’s important not to ruin your reputation by checking out too soon. Respect and professionalism matter, even though your days may be limited. Which leads to….
Don’t Burn Bridges
Maybe your boss rivaled Meryl Streep’s character in the Devil Wears Prada, but show restraint and take the high road even if you are offered another position. Your reputation is more important than a fleeting moment of satisfaction gained from bad mouthing your boss. People who we think will forever be a part of our past, sometimes reenter our lives when we least expect it. Don’t give your current boss a reason to reenter your life with a vengeance somewhere down the road.
Focus on the positives of what is ahead, instead of the negatives of your current situation.