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Writer's pictureRenata Bernarde
Aug 19

Strategies for Job Hunting While Employed

Episode 252 - Strategies for Job Hunting While Employed




Job hunting while employed can be a delicate balancing act. On the one hand, you want to find a new opportunity that better aligns with your career goals, but on the other, you must maintain discretion and continue to perform in your current role. This blog and episode 253 of The Job Hunting Podcast provide essential strategies to help you navigate this process successfully, ensuring a smooth career move.


Why Job Hunting While Employed Is a Smart Strategy


Many professionals hesitate to search for a new job while employed. It’s a lot of work to keep up with the demands of a busy job, let alone find the time to job search, send tailored applications, and attend job interviews. On top of all of the work that is job searching, there is also the fear of being discovered by their current employer.


But there are significant advantages to job hunting while still employed:

  • Leverage: You have more bargaining power when you are already employed. Some potential employers are favorable to candidates who are currently employed. This is an outdated concept that still prevails in the corporate role, so you can benefit from this conscious/unconscious bias if you’re job searching while still employed.

  • Security: You maintain financial stability while exploring new opportunities, reducing the stress associated with unemployment.

  • Confidence: Continuing to work while searching for a new job can help you stay sharp and confident in your abilities.


However, these advantages come with challenges. We discuss them in detail on the podcast and summarize them below so you can approach your job search strategically to minimize risks and maximize opportunities.

 

Preparing for a Discreet Job Search

 

Update Your LinkedIn Profile Gradually


One of the first steps in your job search should be updating your LinkedIn profile. However, doing this all at once can raise red flags to your current employer and colleagues. Instead, make gradual updates. By making these changes incrementally, you avoid sudden shifts that might draw unwanted attention.


  • Profile Summary: Start with your summary. Ensure it reflects your current experience and aspirations without directly indicating you are job hunting.

  • Skills and Endorsements: Slowly update your skills section and seek endorsements over time.

  • Profile Picture: If you haven’t updated your profile picture in a while, consider doing so, but avoid using the public “open to work” banner if you are employed.

 

Be an Expert on LinkedIn Privacy Settings


LinkedIn offers several privacy settings to help you control who sees your updates. These settings will help you maintain a low profile during your job search. Here are some key settings to adjust:


  • Profile Viewing Options: Set this to “private mode” when you’re researching companies or viewing recruiters' profiles.

  • Sharing Profile Edits: Turn off notifications that broadcast your profile changes to your network.

  • Who Can See Your Connections: Limit the visibility of your connections to prevent your employer from seeing if you’re connecting with many recruiters.

 

Network Discreetly


Networking is crucial to finding a new job, but it must be done carefully when you’re still employed. Focus on reaching out to trusted contacts outside your current organization:


  • Former Colleagues and Managers: Reconnect with people you’ve worked with who might be aware of opportunities in their current companies.

  • Industry Events: Attend industry events and conferences to network with professionals outside your current organization.

  • Recruiters: Engage with recruiters privately. Many are used to working with employed professionals and understand the need for discretion.


When networking, be clear that your conversations are confidential and emphasize the importance of discretion.

 

Managing Your Current Job While Searching

 

Avoid Using Company Resources


Using your current employer’s resources to search for a new job is a big no-no. It can put your current job at risk and create ethical dilemmas. This includes:


  • Company Email: Never use your work email to apply for jobs, communicate with recruiters, or set up interviews.

  • Company Equipment: Use your personal computer or phone for job search activities, especially when conducting online interviews.

  • Company Time: Avoid conducting your job search during work hours. Instead, carve out time before or after work or during lunch breaks.

 

Manage Your Time and Energy Wisely


Balancing your current job responsibilities with a job search can be exhausting. By managing your energy wisely, you can perform well in your current role while dedicating time to your job search. It’s essential to manage your energy effectively:


  • Prioritize Your Tasks: Focus on high-priority tasks at work and consider delegating or delaying less critical projects.

  • Take Strategic Breaks: Use your vacation days or personal time strategically to attend interviews or recharge when needed.

  • Don’t Overcommit: Give your current job the necessary attention, but don’t overextend yourself. Remember, your goal is to find a new opportunity that aligns with your long-term career goals.

 

Choose References Carefully


Selecting references is a critical part of your job search, especially when you’re still employed. Ensure that your references understand the need for discretion, especially if potential employers contact them.


  • Avoid Current Colleagues: It’s usually best not to use current colleagues as references unless you have a trusting relationship and have discussed your job search with them.

  • Use Past Managers or Colleagues: Contact former managers or colleagues who can vouch for your skills and experience without risking your current job.

  • Prepare Your References: Inform your references about your job search and the types of roles you’re applying for so they can provide relevant and supportive feedback.

 

Preparing for the Possibility of Being Discovered


Even with the best efforts, there’s always a chance your current employer might find out about your job search. It’s crucial to have a plan in place:


Have a Clear, Professional Narrative


A clear and professional narrative can help maintain your reputation and relationships, even if your job search is discovered. If your employer confronts you about your job search, consider the following:


  • Focus on Growth: Explain that you are exploring opportunities to grow your career, learn new skills, or take on new challenges that may not be available in your current role.

  • Be Honest but Diplomatic: Avoid negative comments about your current employer. Instead, emphasize that you are looking for opportunities that align with your long-term career goals.

 

Know Your Legal Rights


In many regions, employees have legal rights that protect them from being terminated solely for looking for a new job. Knowing your legal rights can provide peace of mind and help you navigate potential conflicts with your employer. However, it’s important to be aware of your specific situation:


  • Employment Contracts: Review your employment contract to understand any clauses related to job searching while employed.

  • Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with local employment laws to understand your rights and protections.

 

Timing Your Job Search for Success


Timing is a critical factor in job searching while employed. Here are a few tips to consider:

 

Understand Market Conditions


The job market fluctuates based on economic conditions, industry trends, and seasonal factors. Understanding market conditions can help you time your job search effectively and increase your chances of success. In 2024, for instance, many professionals hesitate to search for new opportunities due to economic uncertainties. However, this could work to your advantage:


  • Less Competition: Fewer candidates may be applying for roles, giving you a competitive edge.

  • High Demand for Certain Roles: Certain industries may have a higher demand for skilled professionals, making it an ideal time to search for a new job.

 

Align Your Search with Your Career Goals


Your job search should align with your long-term career goals to ensure that your next move is successful. Consider the following:


  • Skill Development: Look for opportunities that allow you to develop new skills or take on new challenges that will benefit your career in the long run.

  • Company Culture: Consider the culture of potential employers and how it aligns with your values and work style.

  • Career Advancement: Seek roles that offer a clear path for career advancement and align with your aspirations.

 

Use Discretion in the Final Stages


A well-planned exit strategy can help you leave your current job on a positive note and set you up for success in your new role. As you move closer to securing a new role, it’s important to maintain discretion:


  • Don’t Announce Your Departure Prematurely: Wait until you have a signed offer before informing your current employer of your departure.

  • Plan Your Exit Strategy: Consider how you will transition from your current role, including how you will handle responsibilities and maintain relationships.

 

Final Remarks


Finding a job while employed is a complex process that requires careful planning, discretion, and strategic action. You can navigate your job search successfully by gradually updating your LinkedIn profile, networking discreetly, managing your current job responsibilities, and preparing for the possibility of being discovered.


Remember, the goal is to make a successful career move that aligns with your long-term goals. With the right approach, you can secure a new role that offers greater opportunities for growth and advancement while maintaining your professionalism and reputation in your current job.


Whether you’re looking for a new challenge, a better work-life balance, or a step up the career ladder, these strategies will help you achieve a successful and seamless transition to your next role.


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